Patriots quarterback Cam Newton takes the high road while responding to Jeff Garcia’s criticism of him

After his former team, the San Francisco 49ers, beat the New England Patriots 33-6 on Sunday, Jeff Garcia shared his thoughts on Cam Newton: he openly criticized the Patriots’ quarterback after he was benched following a three-interception performance. The criticism was not based on Newton’s play, however, but rather his attire.

Garcia’s statements were met with plenty of backlash on social media, but the target of it did not join the chorus. Instead, Cam Newton took the high road when asked about the remarks during an appearance on WEEI’s The Greg Hill Show on Monday.

“You know what’s crazy, I agree with him,” New England’s passer said. “And the fact that he’s a former player, he has every right to say that. And until that happens, so be it, but that’s another opinionated theory, and it’s fair to say. I know I come off to so many different people so many different ways, and that’s fine. You know what, he’s exactly right. But I’m not changing the way I dress, I’m sorry.”

Newton later added that he did not know Garcia personally, but that his style is a reflection of his cultural heritage.

“I do certain things because of the culture I’m from,” the 31-year-old said. “I don’t know where Jeff is from, and I don’t want to harp on it too long, but let’s just say he’s right.”

After two disappointing games, Newton will get his next chance to prove his doubters such as Garcia wrong on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. The Patriots will travel to Western New York to take on the AFC East leaders, and Newton will line up under center as the team’s starting quarterback once again despite getting benched in favor of Jarrett Stidham on Sunday against the 49ers.