Patriots start Mac Jones, release former MVP Cam Newton
In possibly the most surprising move of the NFL off-season, the New England Patriots elected to start rookie quarterback Mac Jones week one against the Miami Dolphins. In fact, Jones’ will be the first rookie QB to start a week one game under legendary coach Bill Belichick in New England. In a subsequent move, the Patriots released former MVP and their 2020 starting QB Cam Newton.
Newton’s 2020 season was a rollercoaster, garnering 20 total touchdowns to go along with ten interceptions. Despite the poor numbers, Newton’s year was an uphill fight, including a battle with COVID-19, a scheme that wasn’t made for him and a lack of weapons on the perimeter. The 32-year-old QB should gather some interest in free agency to a team that needs a veteran at the helm. The only team to contact Newton, as of now, was the Dallas Cowboys.
Pistons buyout DeAndre Jordan, expected to sign with Lakers
The Detroit Pistons announced they were buying out their newly acquired center DeAndre Jordan’s contract, allowing him to become a free agent with just over a month before the season begins. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Jordan plans to sign a one-year, $2.6M contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. The former Clipper heads back to LA, this time for their rival. Jordan now gives the Lakers one of the deepest teams of all time, one full of veteran leadership and experience.
The 33-year-old center averaged 7.5 points and 7.5 rebounds on 76.3% from the field during the 2021 season, though he only appeared in 57 games. Surprisingly, the veteran didn’t appear in one of the Nets 12 playoff games. With the current core that the Nets have, a center like Jordan doesn’t serve much of a purpose. During the 2021 NBA Playoffs, the Nets opted to run small ball with either Kevin Durant or Jeff Green at center. The five-out strategy, a strategy where all five players on the court are capable shooters, is one that the Nets have adapted to.
College football returns
The long-awaited return of college football has happened. It was an eventful bunch of games, with six ranked teams losing their first game. One of which was No. 20 Washington, who lost to FCS program Montana. This marks the first time since 2016 that an FCS team has taken down a ranked FBS team.
The story of the weekend was former UCF and current FSU QB McKenzie Milton’s return to football after a devastating injury. During the 2018 season, Milton suffered a knee injury, one so severe that about 50% of people with the same injury get their leg amputated. His thigh and leg bones were pushed out of place, consequently causing issues with blood flow in his leg. Despite everything, Milton made his first appearance in three years against No. 9 Notre Dame. Milton kept the Noles in the game, losing by just three points in overtime to the Indiana juggernaut. The one-time UCF star is back after defying the odds and hopes to lead FSU to a great season.
