20 NFL bold predictions after the 2021 NFL Draft
By Randy Gurzi
3. Cam Newton will not make the 53-man roster
There was no more perfect match in the 2021 NFL Draft than Alabama quarterback Mac Jones and the New England Patriots. After months of speculation that he would go third overall to the San Francisco 49ers, Jones found himself lasting until the 15th pick, but Bill Belichick and the Pats were thrilled to stop his slide there (they really were, it’s just hard to tell by Bill’s face sometimes, but he was through the roof).
Now the question becomes whether or not Jones can be the starter in 2021. Right now, it looks as though Cam Newton has the job and he will need to fend off the rookie. But is that really the case?
Sure, Newton is a former NFL MVP but his one season in New England wasn’t exactly pretty. They were 7-9 overall and Newton was 7-8. He also threw for just 2,657 yards with eight touchdowns and 10 picks. He did make up for some of that with his legs, finishing with 12 touchdowns on the ground and 592 yards.
The problem is, he just seemed to be a poor fit in Josh McDaniels’ offense. In fact, it was a bit of a surprise he even returned to New England at all. As for Jones, his ability to throw the ball accurately and in rhythm is exactly what this offense needs.
This prediction is that not only will Jones beat out Newton but the Patriots will prefer Jarrett Stidham as the No. 2 option, meaning Cam won’t make the 53-man roster.