Patriots: Cam Newton responds to contract extension rumblings

Patriots quarterback Cam Newton responded to rumors about him earning a new contract extension.

After a conservative Week 1 approach on offense in which Cam Newton was asked to drop back to pass just 19 times, there was concern among Patriots fans in terms of whether his arm was capable of keeping the team within striking distance against Russell Wilson and Seattle’s high-powered offense on Sunday night.

It’s fair to say that Newton, for what seems like the zillionth time since he arrived in New England, silenced (what’s left of) his critics with a vintage performance in primetime. Despite being stuffed at the goal line on the final play of regulation, the 35-30 loss was viewed in a positive light and has media members thinking the Patriots have a relatively high ceiling this season.

As expected, Newton’s exceptional play thus far has fueled rumors about whether the Patriots should sign him to a contract extension before his value skyrockets. Aware of these rumblings, the 31-year-old quarterback asserted during an interview with WEEI radio that money and a new contract are the last things on his mind right now.

"“Money at this particular point in my career is not important,” Newton said. “Let’s be honest: I’ve made money, but for everything that I play this game for, I haven’t received yet. And that’s why I’m playing. So it’s not about money, it’s about respect.“I do believe this: A wise man once said — and that wise man is my father — all blessings don’t come in financial means. So for me, if I do what I’m supposed to do, everything else will take care of itself.”"

As if Patriots fans needed any more reason to love this guy, right? Newton is showcasing gratitude and humbleness that we just didn’t see during his days in Carolina. That’s not to say he handled himself in a selfish manner with the Panthers, either. The three-time Pro Bowler has seemingly just never been this self aware and driven before.

If you read between the lines, you can tell that the one thing Newton hasn’t “received” yet is a championship. Of course, he led Carolina to the Super Bowl during his MVP season back in 2015, but ultimately came up short.

This “let your play do the talking” mindset from Newton is working wonders as he’s quite literally been the Patriots top performer (including defense) through the first two games. He’s completed 45-of-63 pass attempts for 552 yards and one touchdown. On the ground, Newton has taken 26 carries for a team-high 122 yards and four touchdowns, which is tied for first in the NFL.

To say the Auburn product is out-playing his one-year, $1.05 million contract — that can pay as much as $7.5 million with incentives — would be a colossal understatement. And the fact a new and improved deal is the least of his concerns proves that he should be the Patriots’ long-term answer under center.

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