Cam Newton explained that his modest one-year contract with the New England Patriots "is not about money for me, it's about respect."

Newton has only $550,000 in guaranteed money with a base salary of $1.05 million. Newton can earn an additional $6.45 million in incentives and per-game roster bonuses.

The Patriots can also apply the franchise tag on Newton in 2021.

Richard Sherman was one of many to criticize how Newton deserved a more lucrative contract based on his talent.