It was just two weeks ago that fans checking sports scores were shocked to learn that the Carolina Panthers had selected Cam Newton from Auburn with the first overall selection in the 2011 NFL draft. When the NFL ends its lockout, fans can expect Cam Newton and the Panthers offense to TRY and put up huge football scores, but let's be honest, this likely isn't the factor but we'll get into that in a minute.
When Cam Newton was selected first overall two weeks ago by the Carolina Panthers, the entire NFL world was shocked. Since Jake Delhomme left in 2009, the Carolina Panthers have had a quarterback carousel, as they drafted Jimmy Clausen to partner up with Matt Moore in 2010. By bringing in Cam Newton, Panthers management has informed their fans that they expect to contend in the not too distant future. Given how successful Newton was in his only year at Auburn, fantasy football managers should proceed with caution when selecting Newton.
To say that Newton is an intriguing player would be an understatement. On the one hand, he’s been compared to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick. Conversely, Newton’s also been compared to former NCAA standout, turned first overall selection bust JaMarcus Russell. For all intents and purposes, today we will stick with the Vick comparison.
Dynasty Fantasy Football
In our humble opinions, we suggest taking a flyer on Cam Newton, if you are playing in a dynasty format fantasy league. The reason we suggest Newton for this type of league, is because despite all of his talent, Newton will need at least a season to a season and a half to get adjusted to the NFL. Keeping with the Vick comparison, a lot of scouts believe that Newton is a better passing version of Vick. Which, considering Vick was runner up to the MVP title last year, could mean that Newton and the Panthers have a good chance of becoming great in a couple of years.
Head to Head Fantasy Football
On the other hand, if you are playing in a head to head fantasy league, we suggest keeping Newton on the waiver wire and in deep leagues you could pick Newton up in place of you starter’s bye week. I don't even see Cam as a fantasy football sleeper. Newton won’t be the week one starter, as the Panthers will most likely start Jimmy Clausen. However, by week 10 if the Clausen and Moore quarterback combination hasn’t worked out, expect the Panthers to make Newton the starter.
