Former NFL MVP Cam Newton has been released by the New England Patriots, according to the league's official website.
The former Carolina Panthers quarterback was the Patriots' starter last year but has failed to hold off rookie Mac Jones in a pre-season battle for the position.
Newton posted on his Instagram story: "I really appreciate all the love and support during this time but I must say... please don't feel sorry for me!! I'm good".
The 32-year-old started all but one game last season and threw for 2,657 yards with eight touchdowns and 10 interceptions, adding 12 rushing scores, as the Patriots missed the play-offs in their first season without Tom Brady.
Newton missed a week of pre-season after what was described as "a misunderstanding" over Covid-19 protocols for unvaccinated players and Jones, the 15th overall pick from Alabama, has enjoyed much more match action, completing 36 of 52 passes for 388 yards and a touchdown across the three games. Newton went 14-of-21 for 162 yards, a touchdown and a pick.
Elsewhere in the league, former Denver Broncos, New York Jets and Patriots QB Tim Tebow's attempt to make a comeback at tight end appears to be over after he was cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he had linked up again with his former University of Florida coach Urban Meyer.
