Patriots Rumors: Cam Newton 'Unlikely' to Receive New Contract Midseason

The New England Patriots are reportedly unlikely to sign Cam Newton to a contract extension during the 2020 season.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the Patriots are taking a "wait-and-see" approach with Newton, who has played like an MVP candidate through his first two games in New England. 

Newton signed a one-year contract with the Patriots in July after sitting on the open market for more than three months. His deal comes with a $1.1 million base salary and a maximum value of $7.5 million, based on playing time and team success incentives.

If the first two weeks of the season are any indication, Newton should rake in salary pretty close to that max. Newton's thrown for 552 yards and a touchdown against an interception while adding 122 rushing yards and four touchdowns in New England's 1-1 start.

When asked about his contract this week, Newton said his focus was on winning now with the Patriots rather than the future.

"My focus is short-term," Newton said. "And that has a lot to do with the Las Vegas Raiders, and I understand where we're trying to go and I understand the questions that you're asking, but I'm gonna say it again. That's not my focus. If that would have been the case I would have did more, I would have said more, I would have waited more. It's irrelevant. For me right now, it's all about winning. Like, let's get back to that. Like, we got too many people worried about chasing the bag. If you do what you're supposed to do everything is gonna take care of itself."

If Newton stays healthy and continues performing, he'll undoubtedly be in line for at least a franchise tag—a deal that would increase his base salary 30-fold. It doesn't really behoove either side to make a long-term commitment after two weeks.