Newton handled the first snap of pregame warmups, indicating he's starting Thursday's preseason game at Philadelphia, Jeff Howe of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Like in the Patriots' exhibition opener last Thursday, Newton is in line to start over rookie first-round pick Mac Jones. Since the team selected the latter, 15th overall, back in April, coach Bill Belichick has maintained Newton is the No. 1 QB In New England, but Jones could make a push for the job when he's "ready to challenge and compete," per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. But Newton remains entrenched at the top of the depth chart, at least for the time being.