The financial details of the new Patriots deal Cam Newton make it clear that New England leaves open their options regarding the quarterback position and the Jimmy Garoppolo rumors continue to persist. In a recent appearance on the PFT PM podcast, NBC Sports Boston’s Tom Curran said the New England-Garoppolo reunion remains a possibility even after Newton’s recovery (via Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio).
Of course, the 49ers should make Garoppolo available through trade, and that situation is a bit murky. GM of San Francisco John Lynch he said last month that he had no doubt Garoppolo would be his initial QB in 2021, but a few days later a report appeared indicating that Jimmy G was still on the commercial block.
According to Florio, the Niners are still looking for an update and if they find one, Garoppolo would obviously be taken care of. While he should give up his non-exchange clause, it probably wouldn’t be a problem if San Francisco enters or plans to incorporate a player who could pose a threat to his initial job.
As ESPN.com’s Mike Reiss points out, getting a legitimate quarterback hired was key for the Patriots with free agency opening this week. While there are many who believe Newton is no longer a viable starter, he remains a cherished figure among players, and the Pats, who have a league salary cap, are active players in the market. The club has been connected with some of the best receivers and tight ends available, and those players would probably not even consider Foxborough Jarrett Stidham he was the only passer on the list. Thus, although Newton’s agreement does not assure him of anything, it had to be done.
For his part, Newton hopes to take a big step forward in 2021 if given the chance. He recently posted an advertising video on Instagram promising to be back in training next season, and depending on how things are done in the free agency and the draft, he may have that opportunity. If nothing else, the fact that the Pats returned him suggests that the team thinks he might look more like his old self with a better weapon complement surrounding him.
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