Patriots' Cam Newton: 'Real Work' Starts After Being Named Starting QB, Captain

New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton is entering his 10th season in the NFL but first with the Pats after the team signed the 2015 MVP as a free agent this summer.

Newton, who was released by the Carolina Panthers, the team that drafted him No. 1 overall in 2011, is clearly determined to prove he's still got it after being named New England's starting quarterback and one of eight captains.

He delivered the following comments to reporters Friday, noting "the real work kind of starts for me," per ESPN's Mike Reiss:

"A person might kind of sense it was almost expected, but not from me, though. Ever since I first spoke to any personnel with the team, I wanted to make sure they understood my drive and understand I'm not taking this opportunity for granted—whether it's showing up as early as I do show up, or leave as late as I leave, I know people know that my heart is in the right place.

"As far as when it comes to this team, there is nothing I wouldn't do besides put their best interest at heart. To be named a captain was just something that was just rewarding to hear, but at the same time, now the real work kind of starts for me."

Newton missed all but two games last year with a Lisfranc injury and struggled near the end of 2018 when he had a shoulder injury. But he's proved to be one of the league's best and most dynamic quarterbacks, earning that MVP award by leading Carolina to a 15-1 record.

He's taking over for Tom Brady, the six-time Super Bowl champion who left the Pats in free agency for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The other seven captains are defensive lineman Lawrence Guy, defensive backs (and twin brothers) Jason and Devin McCourty, linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley, center David Andrews, special teamer Matthew Slater and running back James White.

A three-time Pro Bowler, Newton has thrown for 182 touchdowns and rushed for 58 more. He's completed 59.6 percent of his passes and rushed for 5.1 yards per carry, registering a career-high 754 yards on the ground in 2017.

His 35 touchdown passes in 2015 marked a career high, and the Panthers started 14-0 and won the NFC title game against the Arizona Cardinals before losing to the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50.

Newton will take the field as a Patriot for the first time Sept. 13 when his team hosts the Miami Dolphins.