2021 NFL Draft: 3 Team fits for Senior Bowl QB Jamie Newman

New England Patriots

The Patriots aren’t committed to Cam Newton beyond this season and, nine games into his career in New England, it is unclear whether he has done enough to be considered the franchise quarterback.

However, if the Patriots do stick with Newton and sign him to a longer-term deal, then Jamie Newman would be a strong insurance policy.

Their skill sets are strikingly similar, though Newton possessed more athleticism as a runner when he came out back in 2011.

Newman could surely benefit greatly from Newton’s considerable experience but the biggest plus of going to New England would be the chance to learn at the feet of Bill Belichick.

A lack of talent at other areas, particularly the offensive skill positions, has been exposed as the Patriots had largely struggled until their successive wins over the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens.

Re-signing Newton and selecting Newman later in the draft would provide New England the chance to address their other areas of need with premium picks while still giving the Patriots a player who could prove to be their future at the game’s most important position.

It remains to be seen whether Newton is the answer for New England. However, it is clear at this point that the solution is not Jarrett Stidham or Brian Hoyer, who is also a free agent in 2021. To avoid having to rely on either of those sub-par options, the Patriots should invest in a rookie. If they don’t want to use an early pick on one of the top prospects, then Newman stands as an obvious high-upside backup option.