Ron Rivera: Cam Newton 'Ready To Bust Out'

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(670 The Score) Redskins coach Ron Rivera arrived to an organization in Washington this offseason that's invested in quarterback Dwayne Haskins, the team's first-round pick in 2019. 

But if his team wasn't committed to developing Haskins, Rivera would've welcomed Washington bringing in former MVP quarterback Cam Newton, who agreed to a one-year deal with the New England Patriots on Sunday.

Rivera developed a close relationship with Newton during their time together with the Panthers from 2011-'19 and believes Newton is healthy enough to make an impact with the Patriots.

"He's headed in the right direction," Rivera said on the McNeil & Parkins Show on 670 The Score on Monday. "I mean, he's probably about as healthy as it gets from what I've seen on video. I think he's ready to bust out.

"I would never bet against the young man, that's for sure."

Released by the Panthers in March, the 2015 MVP Newton remained a free agent as teams were concerned about his health. Newton had surgery to repair a Lisfranc injury in December. He played just two games in 2019. Prior to that, Newton had surgery to repair a lingering injury to his right throwing shoulder in January 2019. During the coronavirus pandemic, teams weren't able to test Newton's health.

Rivera has seen tape of the 31-year-old Newton's workouts and sees him healthy once again. He believes Newton still has good football in his future.

"Don't bet against him," Rivera said. "I really wouldn't. First of all, you got to know who he is and understand what all he's gone through. He's a guy that's always tried to do things, I think, because he's felt the pressure. He felt the pressure of being the No. 1 overall pick. He felt the pressure of having won the Heisman Trophy and being the No. 1 overall pick. He felt the pressure of being a black quarterback, with all the stuff that's been heaped on him.

"He's really had to find his way through it, and he's done a great job with it."