Following the Patriots bringing in Cam Newton so late in the offseason, many believed he was pretty much locked in as the Week 1 starter and second-year player Jarrett Stidham would have to wait.
But, over the last few weeks there have been several prominent media members who won't go as far as saying Newton will be under center when the Patriots host the Dolphins Sept. 13.
NBC Sports' Peter King is the latest.
"I disagree with those who think Newton's a lock to start opening day—if there is one," King wrote Monday in his Football Morning in America column. "I think he probably will start . . . but consider that Newton, this morning, has never had one install session with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, has not played fully healthy for 21 months and has had two significant surgeries in that time. Then throw in the fact that the Patriots have never had him on a practice field, and that Newton may not have his first real padded practice with the Patriots till two weeks before opening day. There's a lot to overcome.
"I think Newton wins the job, but don't discount the high New England regard for Jarrett Stidham. Belichick simply doesn't care what anyone thinks about his quarterback situation."
Newton has been working out with some Patriots pass catchers in California, while Stidham has been working with another group in the Foxborough area.
All players are scheduled to report on July 28.
