Cam Newton appeared in only two games with the Carolina Panthers during the 2019 season before a Lisfranc injury sidelined him for the rest of the campaign. Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Newton not guaranteed Patriots starting job?

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 7/31/20

Cam Newton will have to earn his place atop the depth chart of the New England Patriots during training camp.

The 2015 NFL MVP who signed with the Patriots earlier this month is undeniably the most accomplished signal-caller on a roster that includes unproven commodity Jarrett Stidham, journeyman Brian Hoyer and undrafted rookie Brian Lewerke.

As MMQB's Albert Breer tweeted on Friday, New England coach Bill Belichick isn't giving Newton anything this summer:

Patriots coach Bill Belichick on QBs: "That spot's the same as all the other spots on the team. ... We'll give everybody an opportunity and see what happens."
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) July 31, 2020

Newton isn't without his flaws, as the veteran has battled through a myriad of injuries throughout his career. He appeared in only two games with the Carolina Panthers during the 2019 season before a Lisfranc injury sidelined him for the rest of the campaign.

Carolina released Newton this past March.

Even if Newton never reclaims his MVP form, one would think he's the favorite to enter Week 1 as New England's starter unless something goes awry over the next month or so. Perhaps Belichick, the ultimate tactician, is merely trying to light a fire under his newest offensive weapon.

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