In a YouTube video, Cam Newton also said some thought he would be a ‘distraction’ as a backup QB, and said his release ‘had nothing to do with no vaccination.’

All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore, on the PUP list, will miss at least six weeks, while Jalen Mills is limited Thursday with an apparent ankle injury.

Even in New England’s dominant seasons Miami has been a thorn in Bill Belichick’s side, and Brian Flores coaching the Dolphins only adds to a budding rivalry.

Cunningham, who was an all-American at Southern California, made the Pro Bowl with the Patriots in 1978.

Patriots tight end Hunter Henry, who missed most of preseason with a shoulder injury, is expected to be available against the Dolphins,

Coach Bill Belichick added to comments he made last week when he said, ‘a pretty high number’ of vaccinated players and coaches have been infected with COVID-19

Patten was a member of three Super Bowl championship teams with New England.

Coach Bill Belichick denies suggestions that quarterback Cam Newton was cut, at least in part, because he hasn’t gotten the COVID-19 vaccine.

Mac Jones made a strong case with his play in preseason, and now the present and future are in the hands of New England’s rookie quarterback.

All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore will not play before Week 7 as he continues to recover from a partially torn quad suffered last December.