Ex-Patriots QB Cam Newton says he's received COVID-19 vaccine: 'I still want to play football'

While the New England Patriots and coach Bill Belichick said Cam Newton's vaccination status against COVID-19 played no role in the quarterback's release prior to the season.

"Just to clear the air," Newton said in a video posted to his YouTube channel. "I got the vaccination."

His initial hesitations regarding the vaccine were due to reported side-effects of fatigue and achiness, he said in the video. Newton missed five days of training camp when he visited an outside doctor and had to wait five days before returning, a longer period to clear protocols that applied to unvaccinated individuals.

Belichick classified the situation as a "misunderstanding" before going with rookie Mac Jones; Newton said he knew his days in New England were numbered because he'd be a distraction to the 15th overall pick.

Being a free agent, Newton said, the number one question became his vaccination status. He's claimed teams have reached out but that he's waiting for the right situation.

"I still want to play football," Newton said. "I still get that urge to go out and perform and do something that I've been doing since I was 7 years old."

Newton said he faced unjust judgment for his decision; Newton said all vaccination decisions should be respected.

"You have to do what's right for you," he said.

Follow Chris Bumbaca on Twitter @BOOMbaca.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ex-Patriots QB Cam Newton says he's vaccinated, ready for NFL return