New England Patriots 2021: Early projections of team’s starting offense
After the offseason and the draft, let’s try to predict and project who will be the New England Patriots offensive starters when the season begins against Miami on September 12.
It’s clearly been an off-season of unprecedented free-agent activity as the Patriot’s hierarchy seeks to regain its playoff status after a down 7-9 year in 2020. That activity included stocking up on offensive skill players.
Last season, the team’s offense was deficient as Cam Newton, the new starting quarterback, had to try to fashion a winner out of a mediocre supporting cast (at best).
Much has been written and even acknowledged about that, yet, still, observers question Newton’s performance and especially his passing abilities.
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Now, it is quite possible that the lingering effects of two shoulder surgeries may have had an impact on his throwing.
In addition, there is no question whatsoever, that contracting Covid-19 had a material effect on his overall condition. Thinking anything other than Covid seriously impacted Cam’s health and his performance after he returned is frankly absurd.
Yet, never once does this writer recollect that Cam used that clear and present serious medical situation as an excuse. In addition, he never cast any blame on his receivers or anyone else for that matter.
Those facts speak volumes about this great player’s and even greater person’s character and professionalism. They are unsurpassed. Period.
The New England Patriots are very fortunate to have a quarterback like Cam on the roster after having essentially tossed away the best quarterback of all time who wore No. 12.
Now, in 2021, Newton is much better positioned to show all the doubters that he is still a top-flight NFL quarterback.
In addition, in the process, if he can demonstrate what it means to be an MVP in the NFL and how to be a consummate professional and person to young Mac Jones, all the better.