Draft Impact- Cam Newton

Cam Newton figures to be the starting quarterback for the Panthers on day one but is he a legit QB2 this year?

Analysis: Even without DeAngelo Williams the Panthers still have a solid ground game with Jonathan Stewart and Mike Goodson. Newton, like Sam Bradford before him will not be asked to win games just limit mistakes. Obviously, Newton’s greatest asset is his legs and a potential 500 rushing yard year is not out of the question. A 500 yard season on the ground would easily put him into low end QB2 status with the potential for more. However, Newton’s decision making and defensive recognition is suspect so you can expect just as many passing touchdowns to interceptions. In dynasty/keeper leagues you really have to pass on a guy that more than likely will never throw for more than 3,600 yards and seems to be a glorified version of Vince Young. Guys like Josh Freeman and Aaron Rodgers put up more than solid rushing numbers for a quarterback but at least they can throw it without question. There is only one Mike Vick and Newton isn’t him. Newton does have slightly more talent than Vince Young but he is years behind in terms of polish when each came out of school early.

Projection: Look for Newton to pass for 2,500 yards with up to 500 rushing yards. Twenty total touchdowns is possible but expect twenty picks. He’s an extremely low end QB2 this year but could wind up being a top 18 quarterack by year’s end.

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