Cam Newton signing with the New England Patriots sparked two questions immediately — is he healthy and can he click with Bill Belichick? His former Carolina Panther teammate Kyle Love, who spent time with the Patriots, doesn’t believe these two would work together.
Newton has a larger than life personality on and off the field and the Patriots have a no-nonsense approach to the game. Many players have been able to show their personalities outside of football, but they play by the ‘Patriot Way’ when on the field or in press conferences.
Newton’s second question during a press conference on Friday morning was about his fit with Belichick — he didn’t seem worried about the relationship.
“There’s a perception, but at the end of the day, it’s football. I’ve loved it ever since I’ve been here,” Cam said with a glowing smile. “I’ve been here going on a week now and you hear rumors about certain things. Once you finally get settled in, none of that really matters. It’s just all about finding a way to prove your worth on the team.
“One thing that Coach Belichick does do a great job is setting the tone early. You’re going to know certain things and how it’s done – sooner rather than later.”
He began the press conference with a question about the process before signing with the team and gave respect to the professionalism that was displayed.
“I really can’t remember. I was blown away by the whole overall professionalism of the Patriots organization. Starting with Robert Kraft, coach Belichick as well as coach Josh (McDaniels).”
Newton appears to be healthy and have a solid relationship to begin with Belichick — answering those two pressing questions. Now, it’s just about building familiarity with the playbook and forming relationships with his new teammates.
