While there have been some ups and downs on the field when it comes to Cam Newton, it appears off the field he's been a model leader for the Patriots.
Speaking via video conference Tuesday, offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said how Newton communicates is exactly how a coach-player relationship should be.
“I think Cam is a tremendous example of what a leader is supposed to be," he said. "Leadership isn’t easy and being out in front, playing quarterback in the National Football League certainly is a challenge. There’s a lot of highs and lows that you’re going to experience. Cam has never wavered from his work ethic, from his attitude, from the way he approaches practice, the effort that he gives on a daily basis whether it be a meeting, a film session, a walkthrough, or any part of what we’re doing on the field. He is unselfish. He is accountable for any mistake that he makes.
"He’s incredibly honest and communication with Cam is literally, this is exactly the kind of communication you’re looking for when you’re a coach. You ask a question, you get a honest response. If he makes a mistake, he tells you what it was. There’s no better example for younger players than to see a guy do that.”
Newton is playing his best football of the season, as the Patriots have gone two straight games without a turnover -- the first two games of the year where that's happened.
“I think we’ve seen from progress from Cam," McDaniels said. "Certainly, we can improve in a lot of areas as we move forward, but I think his accountability, his ability to take responsibility for the good and the bad, I think has been a great example for all of our guys on our team to see. Really a joy to coach and look forward to continuing the process.”
