Cam Newton discusses competing for a starting QB spot, and if he feels he has something to prove.
Tom Brady isn't the only veteran quarterback reinvigorated by a change in scenery.
As Brady brings his trademark passion to Buccaneers practices in Tampa Bay, his Patriots successor, Cam Newton, brought his own vibe to the New England practice field Monday for the team's first full-pads practice of training camp.
The 31-year-old quarterback was seen bouncing around between team drills (and showing off some dance moves) while looking genuinely excited to be back on the field.
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Newton also did his best to spread that excitement to his new teammates, too, according to NFL Media's Mike Giardi.
"He brings a different quality about him, a different energy," Giardi said Monday on NFL Network while reporting from Foxboro. "We saw him horsing around on the field -- in a good way -- during the team stretch, saying, 'Hey boys, it's the first day in full pads! First day in full pads!' and getting everybody pumped up."
Newton has been a Patriot for less than two months, but he already seems quite comfortable in his new environment after nine seasons with the Carolina Panthers.
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Perry: Newton's energy front and center at first padded practice
That comfortability shouldn't be overlooked considering the situation Newton is in: He's replacing the greatest quarterback of all time and will be tasked with meeting Bill Belichick's high standard of success, all while playing on a bargain contract after 31 other teams passed on him in free agency due to injury concerns.
It doesn't appear Newton's confidence is shaken, though -- even as he splits practice reps with second-year Jarrett Stidham and journeyman Brian Hoyer.