Cam Newton Favored to Be Patriots Week 1 Starter Over Mac Jones on FanDuel Sportsbook

It's safe to say that the New England Patriots would like to forget that last season happened. It was their first campaign in forever without Tom Brady and it ended with them missing the postseason with a 7-9-0 record.

Looking to bounce back, the Patriots have made several additions throughout the offseason, including selecting former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Mac Jones at No. 15 in the 2021 NFL Draft. However, it's looking like Patriots fans might have to wait a bit before seeing him in regular-season action.

Despite Jones' potential, FanDuel Sportsbook is favoring Cam Newton to remain as the Patriots' Week 1 starter next season at -270 odds. On the other hand, Jones is an underdog at +230. The rookie's odds are far from being a long shot, but it shows that he still has work to do.

Patriots Starting QB

While some Patriots fans might be discouraged upon seeing these odds, it's not like it's a guarantee that Newton will be the top signal-caller once we get to Week 1. Yes, he has way more experience than the rookie, but he wasn't great last season. Newton completed 65.8% of his passes in 2020 for 2,657 yards and a disappointing 8 touchdowns to 10 interceptions.

Unless he shows some major improvements when training camp starts, his job could be in danger.

On the other hand, Jones was nothing but lights out with the Crimson Tide. He finished the 2020 college football season with 4,500 passing yards while recording 41 touchdowns (along with just 4 interceptions).

He won multiple individual awards throughout his tenure with Alabama, including the Davey O'Brien Award, which is given to the nation's best QB. He also finished third in Heisman voting in 2020. It might take some extra work, but no one would be surprised if Jones convinced New England to be the No. 1 QB once Week 1 comes around.

The Patriots are currently tied for the 15th-best odds to win the Super Bowl at +3200, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. At the end of the day, the Patriots will go with whichever quarterback gives them the best shot of getting there.

Sign up for FanDuel Sportsbook today and get your first bet risk free for up to $1,000!