Cam Newton

Cam Newton is an American former professional football quarterback known for his dual-threat playing style and his career with the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots.

Cam Newton is an American former professional football quarterback known for his dual-threat playing style and his career with the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots. He won the Heisman Trophy at Auburn, was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, and was named NFL Most Valuable Player in 2015. Cam Newton is of interest to Canadian readers as a major NFL player whose career included regular-season and playoff matchups against teams followed by Canadian fans of American football.

Early life and college career

Newton was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He played college football at Auburn University, where he won the Heisman Trophy for the 2010 season and helped Auburn win the national championship in 2011.

NFL career

Newton entered the NFL as the first overall pick in 2011 and became known for his passing and running ability. He played for the Carolina Panthers for most of his career, with a 2020 stint with the New England Patriots and a return to Carolina in 2021. As a rookie, he set single-season records for quarterback rushing touchdowns and rookie records for quarterback passing and rushing yards.

Peak season and honours

His 2015 season was his most decorated, earning him NFL MVP and helping Carolina to a franchise-best 15–1 record and an appearance in Super Bowl 50. He was also the first African American quarterback to outright win NFL MVP.

Playing style and records

Newton was notable for combining strong passing production with exceptional rushing output for a quarterback. His rookie and career totals established several quarterback rushing and all-purpose records.