Bill clarifies that Cam did not violate any rules.

Quarterback Cam Newton had to miss a few days because of a “miscommunication” regarding COVID-19 protocols, opening the door for rookie Mac Jones to work out with the Patriots’ first offensive unit
FOXBOROUGH — New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton returned to the club’s practice facility Tuesday after missing three consecutive days because of a “misunderstanding” surrounding COVID-19 protocols, with head coach Bill Belichick clarifying that Newton “did not violate team rules.”

Belichick referenced, above all, the team’s statement — in which it was reported that the club approved Newton leaving the New England region for a medical appointment — when asked how the “misunderstanding” occurred.

“I don’t have anything to add, really. We issued a statement, and I think that covered it as extensively as you can, without getting into anything too deep. So, we’ll leave it at that,” Belichick offered.

Newton’s absence opened the door for rookie quarterback Mac Jones to receive reps with the first team on each of the past three days, and he appeared to take advantage of the opportunity Wednesday against the New York Giants, capping the joint practice with an 80-yard offensive touchdown series.

With Newton back on Thursday, Belichick said, “All the quarterbacks will get work.”

Thursday marks the final practice of Patriots training camp, and the team will then visit the Giants for the preseason finale next Sunday.

The quarterback competition between Newton and Jones remains one of the most important storylines, with Belichick having consistently established that Newton is the starter but, like any other position player, must re-establish that spot throughout the preseason. Belichick also said there could be a change at any position if someone performs better than the starter, or if the starter is unavailable.

When asked at what point he needs to transition from a tight quarterback competition to naming a starter and giving that player the most reps to enlist him for the regular-season opener Sept. 12 against the Miami Dolphins, Belichick replied, “I don’t have a time frame for it … I’m not sure.”