Report: Cowboys to explore signing Newton as Prescott's backup

The Dallas Cowboys plan to explore the possibility of adding Cam Newton following the quarterback's surprise release from the New England Patriots on Tuesday, a source told ESPN's Jordan Schultz.

Newton would join Dallas as a potential backup for Dak Prescott. The Cowboys' quarterback depth chart currently features only Cooper Rush after the team released Garrett Gilbert and Ben DiNucci on Tuesday. Rush, who joined the club in 2017, has attempted just three passes in his career.

Prescott suffered a compound fracture and dislocation of his right ankle last October. The 28-year-old successfully recovered from that ailment, but his participation at training camp was limited due to a shoulder injury. Prescott didn't appear in any preseason games despite initially saying he intended to play in at least one.

The two-time Pro Bowler, who set career highs with 4,902 yards and 30 touchdowns in 2019, is poised to return when the Cowboys open the 2021 season against the defending champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 9.

Newton, 32, posted a 7-8 record with the Patriots last year while throwing for just 2,657 yards and eight touchdowns against 10 interceptions. The former NFL MVP also rushed for 12 scores.