Breaking Down Cam Newton’s Patriots Contract

Cam Newton might not have had the year that New England Patriots’ fans expected him to have, but the former Carolina Panthers quarterback will still earn a good chunk of money.

When Newton signed the contract with the Patriots back in June, it involved a compensation package that maxed out at $7.5 million. 

To get this sort of money, though, Newton would have had to guide the Patriots to the Super Bowl. However, that dream died a rather premature death.

The Patriots saw themselves out of the playoff race for the first time since 2008. With the Patriots now 6-8, Cam failed to live up to the lofty standards expected of him. 

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The intricacies of the contract

Given that the New England Patriots are out of the Playoffs, Newton’s pocket has taken a considerable hit. But even then, Newton is set to rack in millions.

If he pads up for the remaining 2 games of the season, the QB will end his contract with the Patriots with a sum of $3.706 million. This includes a guaranteed base salary of $1.05 million and the $43,750 he earned for the 15 games he played for the Patriots. 

The main chunk of money that Newton is set to earn involves the playing-time incentive clause which states that he will earn $2 million based on playing 80 to 90 percent of the franchise’s offensive snaps. Currently, Newton sits at 86.8 percent. 

Is the future uncertain for Cam Newton?

After enduring a difficult 2020 season, the likelihood of Newton signing with the Patriots again is slim. This would put Newton back in free agency.

Throwing 10 interceptions for 5 touchdowns, Newton’s stint with the Patriots is one he’d like to forget. This is by far Newton’s worst season in the league so far. 

The former league MVP, who was once touted for Super Bowl success, has definitely had quite a fall from grace. From leading the Panthers to the 2015 Super Bowl to throwing 3 interceptions in a single game against the San Francisco 49ers this season, it’s been painful to see the decline that Cam has been on.

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