In a surprise move, New England releases veteran Cam Newton and ends any controversy about who will start at quarterback.

Cam Newton has been the No. 1 QB all camp for the Patriots, so don’t expect Bill Belichick to change now and go with Mac Jones.

Mac Jones turns in another strong performance in his bid to unseat Cam Newton as the starting QB.

The Patriots managed a meager 24 sacks last season, a year after being among the league’s best defenses. With this year’s depth, that dominance could return.

Cam Newton returned Thursday after a five-day isolation, resuming his competition with rookie Mac Jones.

Michel, who will become a free agent after this season, became expendable because of New England’s depth at the position.

QB Cam Newton is in a five-day re-entry process for unvaccinated players after traveling to a team-approved, out-of-town medical appointment over the weekend.

The quarterback will be away from the team until Thursday because of what the Patriots say is ‘a misunderstanding about tests conducted away from NFL facilities.’

Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniel says the team hasn’t given serious thought to playing both Cam Newton and Mac Jones in regular-season games.

Cam Newton did nothing to lose his job as New England’s starting quarterback, but Mac Jones is making a good case.