Report: Only Pats made offer to Newton, Browns held 'brief' talks

The New England Patriots had little competition for Cam Newton's services prior to reportedly signing the quarterback Sunday.

New England was the lone team to make an offer to Newton - a one-year, incentive-laden deal worth up top $7.5 million - following the quarterback's release from the Carolina Panthers in April, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The 2015 NFL MVP reportedly had "brief" discussions with the Cleveland Browns - presumably to act as Baker Mayfield's backup - but negotiations between the two parties quickly fizzled out.

Without a strong market, Newton was forced to take a deal that is far below that of a starting-caliber quarterback, even if he's able to hit all of the incentives.

Newton will attempt to revitalize his career after injuries derailed his final few seasons with the Panthers. He missed all but two games in 2019 due to a foot injury and played through a shoulder issue the season prior.

The star signal-caller said recently he believes the Panthers, who drafted Newton first overall in 2011, "gave up" on him.