The New England Patriots have released Cam Newton and named Mac Jones their starting quarterback for Week 1, according to Jim McBride of The Boston Globe.
Newton joined the Patriots last season after nine years with the Carolina Panthers. New England looked to Newton to take the reins after Tom Brady departed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, however, the 2015 NFL MVP passed for only eight touchdowns with 10 interceptions, and his 2,657 passing yards were the second-worst of his career. There were some highs though as Newton ran for 12 touchdowns and set a franchise record for single-season rushing yards by a quarterback with 592.
The Patriots finished with a 7-9 record and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008.
The 32-year-old Newton reportedly re-signed with New England on a one-year deal worth close to $14 million USD in March.
New England selected Jones in the first round, 15th overall, out of Alabama in this year’s draft. Jones saw the lion’s share of action in preseason play completing 36 of 52 passes for 388 yards and one touchdown.
The Patriots begin the regular season at home against the Miami Dolphins on Sept. 12.
