WATCH: Ex Patriots' Cam Newton Goes Viral For Fight
The New England Patriots have yet to identify their starting quarterback moving forward, but it almost definitely won't be old friend Cam Newton.
The 34-year-old Newton, who was QB1 for New England in 2020, has not played in the NFL since 2021. The former MVP, however, remains heavily involved in the football world through his Cam Newton Foundation-sponsored 7v7 tournaments, which were the site of a physical altercation this weekend with Newton at the center of the melee.
In a viral video that circulated across social media on Sunday, multiple punches were thrown as a struggle ensued. The action unfolded in what appeared to be a registration area.
Newton, wearing his new "eclectic topper" trademark hat throughout, can be seen physically manhandling his adversaries, seemingly fending off seven adult men and remaining on his feet throughout the ordeal. After about 15 seconds of fisticuffs, event security was able to diffuse the situation. Atlanta Police were also on the scene.
The genesis of the dispute could not be determined from the video footage. Messages on Twitter claimed that Newton was mixing it up with members of the TSP Crew, who were apparently participating in the tournament. Presumably, Newton will engage in damage control on behalf of his brand and release a public explanation at some point.
In 15 games for the 2020 Patriots, Newton accounted for a 7-8 record and 20 total touchdowns (8 pass, 12 rush). He completed 65.8 percent of pass attempts for 2,657 yards and was intercepted 10 times. Newton owns a 75-68-1 career regular season record, registering 194 touchdown passes and 123 interceptions.
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Meanwhile, New England's new offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt hasn't ruled Mac Jones out of the running for QB1 duties. Holding the No. 3 overall selection in April's NFL Draft, the Patriots have been linked to LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels by multiple draft analysts.