A Reason to Select Cam Newton #1 Overall

by Jon Dove on Apr 27, 2011 11:56 AM EDT

I have not been shy about my feelings for Cam Newton and him potentially being selected #1 overall. If Carolina makes this mistake it will set their franchise back several years. The list of flaws are lengthy but Newton has tremendous upside and potential. As the draft approaches, I am forcing myself to take another look at Cam Newton and play a little devil's advocate.

Newton's athletic ability is no secret and will no doubt help him as the makes the transition to the NFL. He is a silky smooth athlete with quickness and a powerful throwing arm. His balance and coordinated movements will allow him to seamlessly tweak his footwork. Newton has a quick over the top throwing motion that will not need to be adjusted allowing him to focus on other parts of his game.

Nobody should overlook that fact that Newton is a proven winner. A player could have all the talent in the world but if they don't know how to win they are worthless. Newton not only knows how to win but has the drive and determination to do what it takes to win. Not accepting defeat is something that makes Cam Newton very attractive.

The recent labor unrest has shown everyone how much money plays a factor in decision making. Cam Newton will be a major money maker for the franchise that selects him. Imagine the amount of tickets, jerseys, and other apparel that will sold.

Lastly, the amount of potential that Newton possesses is through the roof. Do you want to be the team that passed on Cam Newton and he ends up being a great player. Carolina cannot pass on Newton because of Jimmy Clausen's presence that would be a major mistake. Ultimately, the Panthers need to decide if they believe Newton will be a star and if so then he is their pick.

Poll

Would you select Cam Newton #1 overall?

Yes

50 votes

No

170 votes

220 votes | Poll has closed

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Comments

The answer is no, clear and simple

Too big a gamble on someone full of red flags. In a “normal” QB year, with an actual solid first pick QB candidate, I doubt he’d even come up in the discussion. And that’s the thing, the only reason we’re even discussing him for 1st overall is for lack of competition. That’s a really, really shitty reason to draft a QB.

Upside and potential are just different words for “really unskilled right now”.

Also, this story has several typos. “excepting defeat”, “believe Newton will be a start”

by Thomas Beekers on Apr 27, 2011 12:13 PM EDT reply actions

I'd pass on Newton every time!

There are two many question marks that surround him. He is not the kind of QB who I like (that is obviously a subjective preference) – I prefer a pocket passer – Manning or Brady style.

The guy has an ego. I would imagine he is not the brightest crayon in the box.

But let me be honest about my preferences – I am a Colts fan who has a pocket QB who is extremely smart and studious. I see Newton at the complete opposite side of the spectrum.

The Panthers need to select Dareus. They have the beginnings of a good DLine. Dareus could solidify the middle of the DLine. Give Clausen another year. If he blows it, there are better options at QB next year!

With the release of the most explosive Colt ever, I feel like I am preparing for a funeral.

by SupermanWearsBobSander'sPJs on Apr 27, 2011 12:18 PM EDT reply actions

If I were in Carolina's shoes, I would trade the pick

And get some value from someone. CN has too many risk factors and he’s not shown that he’s ready to be a frachise QB in the NFL. He played one season in college and he played great. However, he doesn’t really play in a pro style offense and he played in a year when the SEC was kind of down.

Let someone else take the gamble and get value in return.

Alec: Chris, did you really buy a $1400 toilet?
Chris: Yeah, it's great. It's Japanese and has those little warm water jets that clean the undercarriage.
Eric: Chris, it's a toilet, you shit in it.

by pfhokie on Apr 27, 2011 12:27 PM EDT reply actions

Considering I just mocked Dareus to the Panthers this morning

No, I would not take him first. He needs to go someplace where he can sit a year or two.

As a bucs fan, though, I hope Carolina does take him first and throws him in as the immediate starter.

by aakks on Apr 27, 2011 12:27 PM EDT reply actions

I only wish there was an option for "Hell No!"

"I am patient with stupidity but not with those who are proud of it."

by NMVike on Apr 27, 2011 12:48 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs

I don't agree with your statement "Carolina cannot pass on Newton due to Jimmy Clausen's presence."

They should only pass on Newton due to Clausen’s presence if they think that Clausen will be a franchise QB or something resembling one.

By your logic, the Browns should not pass on Newton or Gabbert just because of McCoy’s presence.

Of course those guys are a factor in your decision making process. If they believe that their young QBs are developing and can lead their teams in the near future, why on earth would you draft another QB?

I voted NO because of two factors, my ambivalence over Cam as an NFL QB, and the potential of Clausen to become a solid starting QB. Maybe if I knew more about Clausen, I might be able to ignore him and take a risk by drafting Newton at # 1.

"I read one article, I said, 'This guy doesn't know what he's talking about,' " Mayhew said. "Then I read another one, and I thought, 'Wait a minute, they're all saying the same thing.' -Martin Mayhew 2011 regarding Draft Gurus.

by NorthLeft12 on Apr 27, 2011 1:38 PM EDT reply actions