What do we have to lose? Nothing.
I don't understand why folks here refuse to even consider it.
Newton was a NFL MVP, has a SB appearance. Until proven otherwise, Newton is a better QB than Stidham.
Sign Newton to a cheap, one year contract (he has no leverage, no other team wants him), have him compete against Stidham for the starting job.
If Stidham wins the starting job, GREAT. That means we got ourselves a franchise QB.
If Newton wins the starting job, so what? Stidham can sit behind Newton for another year of development, not a big deal. Garropolo didn't get his starting job until his fourth year in the NFL. Stidham can wait another year.
Best case scenario with Newton: Cam returns to MVP form, leads the Patriots to the Playoffs.
Worst case scenario with Newton: Cam gets injured/benched. Stidham can play with no pressure on him.
What do we have to lose?