Since Cam Newton was drafted into the NFL, it seems as if he has always been expected to fall short.
In fact, one analyst even proclaimed the Panthers’ use of their first overall draft pick in 2011 on Newton as the worst NFL draft pick ever. The author not only cited Cam’s arm, but also his inexperience and character red flags as points that could hinder Newton’s career.
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Let’s counter each point, starting with the argument that Cam’s arm was not at the accuracy level of an NFL quarterback. Newton is currently ranked 43rd all-time in completion percentage, and he is only improving. Newton has continuously proven to be more and more adequate at throwing accurately to his receivers.
Just this past season, in 2015, Newton threw for more touchdowns and less interceptions than he ever has in his entire career (35 touchdowns, 10 interceptions). Furthering this, it was no coincidence that Newton garnered his first Most Valuable Player award last season.
Additionally, the quarterback’s arm also helps his running attack. In his 599 career rush attempts, Newton has a 5.4 yards per carry average while also scoring a rushing touchdown seven-percent of the time.
Cam Newton’s experience was also in question at the start of his professional career, masking the fact that the quarterback did not lose a game in the only season he had started in college.
Not only has Newton had to deal with plenty of losses, he has also dealt with adversity off the field.
On December 9, 2014, Newton was involved in a car accident that could have derailed his career in a major way. Instead, Newton took the accident as a blessing in disguise and has led his team to a 21-3 record since, per AOL Sports.
Newton’s character is still called into question, but in ways that seem irrelevant. After scoring any touchdown, Newton dances in the end zone and looks to give the game ball to a child in the stands.
Some have bashed Newton for his antics but seem to overlook that the sport itself is a game and is meant to be played having fun- something that the Panthers quarterback takes pride in doing.
Every step of the way, Newton has been chastised and doubted, and last season that skepticism culminated in him winning the MVP and taking his team to the Super Bowl, even without his best wide receiver, Kelvin Benjamin. With his team fully healthy, there is no reason to doubt Newton anymore, as this league could be his for the taking.