DraftKings Sportsbook Adjusts Odds After Patriots Sign Cam Newton

The New England Patriots put an end to the speculation surrounding the starting destination of former NFL MVP Cam Newton for the 2020-21 NFL season on Sunday. Consequently, sportsbooks such as DraftKings found themselves with some tasks ahead.

After signing Newton to a one-year contract, New England opened up a new market for DraftKings, where they legally accept wagers in neighboring New Hampshire. Additionally, the sportsbook made changes to various other betting lines.

Cam Newton now DraftKings’ favorite to win Pats’ QB job

Jarrett Stidham appeared to have a clear path to the job after Tom Brady left the Patriots for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, things have changed since Sunday.

In the QB market for Week 1, DraftKings has Newton listed as the frontrunner with odds of -715. Stidham follows behind with odds of +415, while Brian Hoyer trails with odds of +3300.

However, there are other changes happening at DraftKings. New England’s payout to win Super Bowl LV has now decreased to +1700, making it the third-lowest odds among AFC teams.

Currently, the AFC favorites at DraftKings are the Kansas City Chiefs (+300) and Baltimore Ravens (+325). Surprisingly, the New England Patriots have emerged as the favored team to win the AFC East division, with odds of +110, surpassing their previous equal standing with the Buffalo Bills.

DraftKings Sportsbook Massachusetts has grown increasingly confident in the Patriots’ chances of making the playoffs in the 2020-21 season, even if only as an AFC wild card. Those who bet on the Pats to not make the postseason would now receive a payout of +163.

New England’s projected win total for the regular season is nine, indicating the required number of victories to triumph in the AFC East. Achieving this might necessitate the Patriots surpassing expectations, which, in turn, relies on Newton delivering an exceptional performance throughout the year.

DraftKings’ expectations for Newton in New England

Following the announcement of Newton’s signing, DraftKings adjusted his odds to +3300 for winning his second MVP award. However, there are still nine other NFL quarterbacks, including Brady, who have more favorable odds.

Currently, DraftKings has not introduced a market for predicting which quarterbacks will lead the NFL in passing touchdowns or passing yards in the upcoming season. However, once this market becomes available, it will provide a clearer picture of DraftKings’ expectations regarding Newton’s performance with his new team.

DraftKings’ market for the next Comeback Player of the Year award witnessed a significant shift, with Newton’s +400 line ranking second to Ben Roethlisberger’s +300 line.

Should Newton start for the Patriots in Week 1, he will have a great opportunity to begin making his case for those accolades. According to DraftKings, the Patriots are heavily favored at -286 to win against the Miami Dolphins and kick off the season.

If Newton can successfully lead the Patriots’ offense despite the absence of prominent receiving threats on their roster, he will undoubtedly earn immense respect and recognition. Notably, Mohamed Sanu, who is considered one of the team’s top receivers, has already endorsed Newton.

If Newton is chosen, his dual-threat ability will be the key factor that made him an MVP in the 2015-16 season. Bill Belichick can be expected to capitalize on this advantage.

As the camp progresses in New England, it is possible that some of these lines may undergo significant changes. However, it is important to note that the changes may only result in shorter lines. Therefore, now might be a good opportunity to consider making a trip to New Hampshire and placing bets on Newton’s success in New England.