McDaniels: Newton has a 'different grasp' of Patriots' offense

New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels believes a year of experience with the team will help quarterback Cam Newton overcome his 2020 struggles.

"He's worked really hard. He worked hard all of last year. ... He came back this year at a much different position," McDaniels said of Newton on Thursday, according to Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston. "He has a different grasp of the offense, a different understanding of the terminology. Now we're working on refining the precision, the details."

The 32-year-old, who returned to the club on a one-year deal, has reportedly also worked on his passing mechanics this offseason.

Newton joined the Patriots last offseason after spending his first nine NFL campaigns with the Carolina Panthers, but his debut season in New England didn't meet expectations.

Though the 2015 MVP rushed for 12 touchdowns - his best mark since 2011 - he tossed for just 2,657 yards and eight touchdowns against 10 interceptions while posting a 7-8 record over 15 appearances.

The Patriots missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008 last year, doing so in their first season after Tom Brady departed for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

New England brought in competition for Newton with its first-round selection of Mac Jones.

"He's played in some big games, some pressure situations," McDaniels said of Jones. "He takes care of the football. He's demonstrated the ability to function at a pretty high level in (Alabama's) offense with their terminology."

The Patriots' quarterback depth chart also features Jarrett Stidham and veteran Brian Hoyer.

Head coach Bill Belichick recently said New England's starting passer role is still Newton's to lose.

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