3 reasons Cam Newton won’t make the playoffs in 2020
By Dean Jones
Former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton has signed for the New England Patriots, but getting to the playoff might not be a sure thing in 2020.
Expectations have risen a significant amount for the New England Patriots following the arrival of Cam Newton. The former Carolina Panthers quarterback ended three months on the free-agent scrapheap by linking up with Bill Belichick on a short-term deal that could be worth $7.5 million.
This ends a long-running association between Newton and the Carolina Panthers. Although the 2015 NFL MVP stated he harbors no bitterness towards the organization. He is going into 2020 with a huge chip on his shoulder given the way he was treated by the organization.
There is little doubt that Newton represents an upgrade on Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer in New England. Much will depend on how his health holds up during the season if he wins the starting job. But the player looks more than ready physically for a new challenge if his recent social media posts are any indication.
It is asking a lot of Newton to step into the Patriots’ way of thinking. He has been in something of a comfort zone during his time in Carolina. And he will have to leave his ego at the door is he wants to work cohesively with Belichick.
The head coach does not suffer fools gladly. And this is a huge leap of faith by him to take on Newton. The decision probably came down to the fact he didn’t want a big drop-off following the departure of Tom Brady. But whether this can result in a postseason berth is another matter entirely.
Here are three reasons why the New England Patriots will not make the playoff despite the arrival of Cam Newton.