Nelson Agholor is stepping into a fairly uncertain situation with the New England Patriots, who re-signed their 2020 starting quarterback Cam Newton to a one-year deal before free agency opened. It’s hardly certain he’ll be the starter, with quarterback Jarrett Stidham set to compete for the job and New England still seemingly searching for more options at the position, whether through the trade market or in the draft.
But Agholor, who signed a two-year, $22 million deal with New England this offseason, seems excited to get to play with Newton in 2021.
“Cam Newton is a great quarterback,” Agholor told reporters during an introductory press conference in March. “He’s a league MVP for a reason, and I know he can do whatever needs to be done. For me, it’s just about practicing with him. I’m just excited. I’m excited to work with him. I’m excited to grow. I know he’s going to push me. I also feel like (offensive coordinator Josh) McDaniels is going to put us in position.”
Since speaking on Newton in March, the two players have practiced together on the field during a workout that Stidham organized in L.A.
Barring an unforeseen addition, Agholor will be the highest-paid receiving option in New England, which means he’s also expected to be the No. 1 wideout above Julian Edelman, Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne and N’Keal Harry, among others. Agholor will work with fellow free agent signings Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry, who also figure to be centerpieces in the passing offense.
