Patriots' Gilmore: Newton 'was a great signing'

New England Patriots All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore has joined the chorus of players and fans in support of Cam Newton's signing.

Gilmore told "The Bakari Sellers Podcast" on Monday that he thinks the 2015 NFL MVP is ready to lead the Patriots to success this season.

"It was a great signing," Gilmore said. "I think Cam's very hungry. I've always been a Cam fan. I think he's hard to prepare against, and he has a great opportunity to compete for a starting job, and I'm looking forward to seeing him on our team."

"I just think he's his own unique player," he added. "Obviously, he can run the ball. He can throw it. Anytime you can do both of those things, it's hard to get ready for a certain thing, so he always keeps you off guard. He's very hungry this year. I think he's healthy now, so I'm just looking forward to him helping our team out."

Newton signed a one-year deal with New England after the Carolina Panthers released him earlier this offseason. It was initially reported that the 31-year-old signed an incentive-laden contract worth up to $7.5 million, though the Patriots guaranteed only $550,000 of his $1.05-million base salary.

The Heisman Trophy winner and 2011 No. 1 overall pick will likely battle sophomore Jarrett Stidham for the starting quarterback spot in training camp.