Cam Newton on being cut from Patriots: ‘Please don’t feel sorry for me’

On Tuesday morning, the New England Patriots announced that they cut quarterback Cam Newton and named rookie Mac Jones their starter. Shortly after, Newton released a message via his Instagram about the situation.

Cam Newton’s thoughts (via his IG story) on being released: “Please don’t feel sorry for me!!” pic.twitter.com/dpvtHIxCFR

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 31, 2021

The surprise move provides the team with cap relief as the Patriots turn to Jones to start the season. The news was first reported by Jim McBride off the Boston Globe.

Newton saw limited preseason action in an attempt to keep him healthy. He was the presumed starter coming into camp. He went 14-for-21 with 161 yards, a touchdown and an interception through three games. He joined the Patriots last season after Tom Brady departed for Tampa Bay. He spent the rest of his career with the Panthers who drafted him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. 

Potential landing spots for the former MVP include the Cowboys, Eagles, Dolphins or Falcons.

Jones had gained momentum in recent weeks

Jones received most of the first-team snaps last week after Newton was away from the team for five days following a COVID-19 testing miscommunication.

Jones’ teammates were extremely impressed with the work ethic and poise of the rookie, who turns 23 next week.

“He’s getting a lot of reps now. He’s taking control of the huddle and just trying to do the best he can,” said James White, New England’s veteran running back. “He’s just making sure everybody is on the same page, so we can go out there and execute not just for one period, but throughout the entire practice.”

First-team wide receiver Kendrick Bourne echoed White’s sentiment.

“I think Mac is doing a good job, taking leadership, controlling everybody, having everybody in the right place and stuff like that — making the team be a real team,” Bourne said.

Jones went 36-for-52 with 389 yards and a touchdown this preseason. The Patriots open the regular season against the Dolphins. Jones will start against his former Alabama teammate Tua Tagovailoa.

Tagovailoa recently heaped praise on Jones, wishing him the best to start his NFL career.

“I haven’t texted Mac, I haven’t been able to talk to him since he’s been drafted but I’ve seen them play,” Tagovailoa told reporters last week. “He’s doing pretty good. I hope when he does get his opportunity, he makes the best of it.

“You can’t wish him too much luck because we’re rivals in the same division. But I wish him the best of luck for sure,” Tagovailoa continued.