The Facts: Newton and the Patriots reportedly are parting ways. In 2020, the Panthers deliberately held his rights beyond the start of free agency as they tried to trade him. Only after realizing that there was no market did they release him, after the major moves had been made. This time around, Newton looks forward to signing a contact more quickly. “That’s definitely going to go into consideration,” Newton said Monday. “I’m not going to wait in the latter part of another season when I have the opportunity to do something or sign with someone.”

Diehards Line: Newton’s health also was a factor last year, from the surgically-repaired foot in 2019 to the surgically-repaired shoulder before that to the surgically-repaired ankle before that. The pandemic prevented teams from taking a close look at Newton before making a financial investment in him. This time around, he enters the process on an equal footing with other quarterbacks. In 2020, Newton made $3.7 million. He deserves more than that, and the circumstances of 2021 should help him get there. Still, he’ll likely end up making closer to $3.7 million than $30 million in his next contract.