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The New England Patriots are closing out June with a bang. ESPN is reporting the team has agreed on a deal with quarterback Cam Newton, and is also reporting the team will be disciplined for their filming of the Cincinnati Bengals sideline.
The NFL confirmed to ESPN’s Mike Reiss that the Patriots will be fined $1.1 million and will lose a third round pick in the 2021 draft. Additionally, “the Patriots’ television production crews will not be allowed to shoot any games during the 2020 season and senior club officials will undergo required training on league operation and game policies.”
The Patriots admitted to inappropriate behavior in filming the field and sideline. The organization did not inform the Bengals or NFL about the filming, but called it an “unintended oversight.” It’s entirely possible it was unintentional, but given the Patriots history, it’s easy to be skeptical.