Report: Patriots unlikely to adjust Cam Newton’s contract during season

Despite Cam Newton’s stellar performances over two games this season, the New England Patriots likely won’t adjust his one-year contract, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Newton, 31, signed a one-year deal with a base contract of $1 million, but the incentives could get him to $7.5 million. After losing Tom Brady during the offseason, the Patriots couldn’t have struck a better deal to remain competitive and financially stay afloat.

The former NFL MVP has four rushing touchdowns and a 71.4 completion percentage over the first two games. New England doesn’t have a future quarterback at the moment and striking a deal would give Bill Belichick some assurance going forward.

“Adjusting his contract midseason is unlikely,” Rapoport said on NFL Network. “From the Patriots standpoint they are taking a more wait-and-see approach. It’s only two games, plus Newton has battled injuries in the past. They want to be careful for that.

And then if you’re Cam Newton, why would you take a deal now? Wouldn’t it be better to wait until the offseason, potentially get franchised tagged, or even better for him, get to be a free agent and capitalize what looks [to be a very good season].”

If Bill Belichick, 68, continues to coach after this season, then he’ll likely want Newton next to him.