Cam Newton’s resilience proves Patriots could still build around him

Patriots QB Cam Newton’s comments after the win over Arizona proves he can be a building block beyond 2020.

Over the last several weeks, there’s been growing speculation about whether the New England Patriots should move on from Cam Newton in light of his inconsistencies with a roster overhaul looming in the offseason.

That conversation was only amplified following Newton’s latest subpar performance vs Arizona on Sunday, when he finished 9-of-18 for 84 yards and two interceptions. A statistical line as egregious as that deserves to be ridiculed, but he did enough to help the Patriots win the game, and that shouldn’t fall by the wayside.

During his weekly spot with WEEI Radio, the 31-year-old quarterback acknowledged that he has to play better. However, he also had a message for his haters that really caught our attention: at the end of the day, winning — regardless of how you get there — is all that matters.

These resilient comments at the very least, prove that Newton is a player the Patriots can build around beyond this season, because he has the right attitude about moving forward as a team.

How can you read that quote and not want Newton to be under center for the Patriots for the next couple of years? He obviously has to improve from a passing perspective, but we fully believe he can be the answer at quarterback if the circumstances around him are bolstered.

The narrative surrounding Newton could turn on its head if he’s equipped with a true No. 1 wide receiver and an NFL-caliber tight end. We’re not saying that the Patriots should become a pass-oriented offense if they make those additions, nor will they help mask his glaring mechanical issues.

However, they will certainly make his job easier. Added weapons will command more attention from opposing defenses, which will only open up more opportunities for the former MVP to wreak havoc with his legs.

Let’s also not forget that the Patriots have fallen off a cliff from a defensive efficiency standpoint, ranking dead last in DVOA this season (heading into Week 12) after finishing first in that category in 2019. If upgrades are made on that side of the ball and they replicate a semblance of the dominance they showcased last year, who’s to say that Newton couldn’t become a dependable game manager?

In our eyes, that is precisely the role that would help the three-time Pro Bowler realize what’s left of his potential considering how many injuries he’s suffered throughout his career.

The blueprint is there for the Patriots to be able to build around Newton. All that we ask is for fans to not give up on him because he’s looked like an average quarterback trying to overcome unprecedented circumstances in a new system.

Patriots: Cam Newton’s apology to Josh McDaniels showed character

New England Patriots QB Cam Newton was caught apologizing to his OC Josh McDaniels, but wouldn't apologize to the people for winning yesterday. Good call.