Patriots’ Cam Newton shares his thoughts on team drafting Mac Jones
Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots bucked against the trend by taking former Alabama quarterback Mac Jones in the first round of this year’s draft.
The decision quickly puts Cam Newton’s long-term future in the spotlight as he embarks on his second campaign in New England. With that in mind, Newton voiced that he was unfazed by the selection and felt that it was the right move.
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“Absolutely not. He was the right pick in my opinion. He was the best player available, and that’s what the NFL draft is for,” Newton said via Mike Reiss of ESPN. “Tuesday in his first remarks to New England reporters since re-signing in March.
“As far as having any chip on the shoulder, you’re stating the obvious. I don’t need too much to get myself going. It’s no disrespect to Mac. It’s no disrespect to Bill [Belichick] and his decision. I support it 110%, because you still have to do what’s right for the organization, for the long haul.”
Belichick has backed Newton as the starter ahead of the 2020 season. The Patriots will continue with the former league MVP leading the charge due to his experience and comfort in running the offensive system.
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Meanwhile, it allows Jones to operate at his pace as he learns the playbook and develops chemistry with his teammates. The Patriots will likely roll with Newton to begin the season and work Jones into the fold if the 32-year-old struggles.
Ultimately, his performance will dictate how his second season in New England unfolds.
