Report: Cam Newton, Patriots expected to part ways

Cam Newton is apparently done in New England. Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Patriots expected to part ways with Cam Newton after one season

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 1/3/21

The New England Patriots were hoping Cam Newton would somewhat be able to fill the hole left by Tom Brady at quarterback. The former Carolina Panthers signal-caller has done anything but fill the hole, leaving the Patriots with one of the worst passing attacks in the NFL.

Newton is expected to start New England's final game of the season against the New York Jets on Sunday, but it appears he'll bid farewell to the franchise following the matchup. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Patriots and Newton are expected to part ways this offseason, making the veteran a free agent.

The #Patriots and QB Cam Newton are expected to part ways this off-season, per @AdamSchefter

Cam Newton passed for only 5 TDs in 14 starts with 10 INTs - He did add 12 rushing TDs from his QB position.

Cam Newton will be a free-agent. pic.twitter.com/p3jbk1MbDs
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 3, 2021

Newton was solid with his legs this season, rushing for 513 yards and 12 touchdowns. His passing attack, however, was atrocious. The former MVP completed 65.4 percent of his passes for 2,415 yards and five touchdowns against 10 interceptions in 14 games.

The Patriots need someone who can throw the ball, and Newton proved he was incapable of doing that week after week.

Bill Belichick will now have to find a new quarterback. It's unclear if he plans to give Jarrett Stidham a shot, draft a quarterback or make a trade for one this offseason. The Patriots' best bet would probably be to draft a QB, but it's unclear what their plans are.

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