New England Patriots cut Cam Newton; Mac Jones to start

Adam Schefter explains the most plausible reasons Bill Belichick resigned Cam Newton to the Patriots. (1:41).
ESPN confirms that the New England Patriots have released veteran Cam Newton and rookie Mac Jones, who had fought for the position since training camp.

Newton was back with the Patriots this offseason, on a one year contract that included $3.5 million guaranteed of his $5.1million salary.

Newton began Sunday's game and played two series with the starters. Jones, the No. Jones, who was the No. 15 pick from Alabama, took his place and played into the third quarter with all the backups.

Newton was 2-of-5 (10 yards) with one interception on Sunday. He was not available for questions after the game. Since the COVID-19 protocol "misunderstanding", which caused him to miss three practice sessions last week, Newton has not spoken to reporters.

Ages of AFC East's starting QBs



Josh Allen, 25

Tua, 23

Zach Wilson, 22

Mac Jones, 22



It's a new age. Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) August 31, 2021

Jones completed the preseason on 36-of-52, for 389 yards with one touchdown. He also had no interceptions. After being sacked once in the preseason's first two games, Jones was sacked four more times in Sunday’s final.

The Boston Globe reported Newton's release first.