Brian Hoyer gets first reps ahead of Jarrett Stidham, Cam Newton in Monday practice

The New England Patriots and most of the rest of the NFL are putting on pads on Monday for the first time in training camp. This marks a significant step forward in figuring out the quarterback position following the addition of Cam Newton in late June. He is competing with veteran Brian Hoyer and second-year quarterback Jarrett Stidham to replace Tom Brady in Foxborough.

Media was on hand for Monday’s workout, and we got a glimpse at what the pecking order looks like, at least for the time being. Brian Hoyer got the first reps, followed by Jarrett Stidham, followed by Cam Newton. As some have noted, this likely is simply in order of seniority. Technically Stidham has been with the team the longest consecutive stretch, having joined the team as a 2019 fourth round pick. However, while Hoyer spent 2019 in Indianapolis, he spent 2017 and 2018 with the Patriots, and thus has the most time with Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels.

The regular season gets underway in a shade under four weeks. While anything is possible, I would bet good money Cam Newton is not the third string quarterback when Week 1 arrives. While Stidham and Hoyer have more time with Belichick and McDaniels, it feels like it would be an upset if either of them was starting over Newton when the Patriots host the Miami Dolphins in Week 1.