Free agent quarterback Cam Newton has agreed to a one-year deal with the New England Patriots.
The 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player will join the six-time Super Bowl champions on an incentive-laden deal.
Newton will now face stiff competition from 2019 fourth-round pick Jarrett Stidham and journeyman Brian Hoyer for the starting job vacated by three-time MVP Tom Brady, who left to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency.
Stidham appeared in three games last season, completing two passes for 14 yards with one interception.
According to the NFL Network, Newton’s contract is worth up to $7.5m, citing an informed source.
“I’m as excited as I don’t what right now!!” Newton posted on Instagram. “All praise to God!! Dropping content tomorrow!! I hope you’re ready!! Let’sgoPats.”
Newton, 31, was forced off the field after a foot surgery in 2019 and was then cut by the team at the end of the season.
He won the 2010 Heisman Trophy playing for Auburn and was drafted as a number one overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.
Newton, a former No 1 overall draft pick who turned 31 in May, had spent his entire nine-year professional career with the Carolina Panthers until he was released by the team in March after they signed Teddy Bridgewater to a three-year, $63m pact.
He had one year remaining on a five-year, $103.8m contract, but the Panthers saved $19.1m under the salary cap by releasing him on 24 March.
