NFL Coaches, Executives Give Candid Assessments Of Patriots QB Cam Newton

Many football names shared their assessments of New England Patriots starting quarterback Cam Newton. Few people expected the 2015 NFL MVP to show shades of his MVP performance this season. It wasn’t Newton’s worst season in his career, but he had too many struggles on the field. At some point of the season, he looked like a shell of himself.

Newton had a nice running game in 2020. He had 11 touchdowns on the ground in the regular season. That’s tied for third-most among all NFL players. However, his passing efforts don’t look too well. New England may not trust Newton to be “a consistent, downfield thrower.”

Coaches make strong assessments on Cam Newton

The veteran was incredible in his prime, but some say his days as a real No. 1 option are over now. Albert Breer from Sports Illustrated talked to several coaches and executives around the league, and most of the questions were related to the Patriots starting quarterback. Some coaches and execs weren’t really optimistic about Newton’s future in the NFL.

“I think his body is breaking down,” an AFC defensive coordinator told Breer. “Never has been a great passer of the ball. Looks to me like he is an older tailback playing QB.”

“Throwing motion is messed up,” an NFC defensive coach added. “Injury has changed him. Doesn’t look like he can bring his arm all the way back. And he can’t raise the ball up either. Almost looks like his shoulder prevents him from getting his elbow up in his throwing motion. It’s awkward.”

Newton had a chance to prove everyone wrong. The Patriots suffered a big loss to the Los Angeles Rams, and coaches benched Newton. This killed pretty much every chance New England had to make the playoffs. Finishing the season with a win would have been of great help for Newton. He would have had great chances to sign a good deal.

New England has yet to be eliminated from the playoff run. The Miami Dolphins are next on the list.