AP source: Patriots completing 1-year deal to re-sign Newton

The New England Patriots are completing an agreement to re-sign free-agent quarterback Cam Newton, a person with knowledge of the negotiations told The Associated Press.

The one-year deal is worth close to $14 million, the person said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because new signings can’t be announced until the league year begins Wednesday. The deal was first reported by The Boston Globe.

With the new pact, the Patriots bring back the 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player after an up-and-down 2020 season. He missed time after contracting COVID-19 and struggled to lead the offense as he tried to fill the void created by Tom Brady’s departure to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Patriots finished 7-9, missing the postseason for the first time since 2008 when Brady sustained a season-ending knee injury in the opener.

LAS VEGAS >> The Life is Beautiful arts and music festival announced its performer lineup, making a return of large annual events to Las Vegas after they were canceled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Singer-songwriter Billie Eilish, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Green Day, psychedelic music artist Tame Impala and rapper A$AP Rocky headline the list of more than 60 artists booked for the Sept. 17-19 event.

“After a year away, we’re not only excited to welcome our fans back to downtown Las Vegas, but also our partner artists, chefs, speakers and creators of all forms,” David Oehm, the event’s chief executive, said in a statement.

Festival director Lauren DelFrago said organizers are working closely with local and state officials to ensure a safe return of live music. Early tickets sold out and general sales began Friday.