NFL Draft: The Myth of the Sure Thing QB
January 10, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) before playing against the Seattle Seahawks in the 2014 NFC Divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Cam Newton is a physical prototype at the QB position yet some were not sure he would be the first overall pick. NFL.com described his weaknesses like so:
"WEAKNESSES Not proficient at going through his progressions or making NFL reads. Doesn’t anticipate receivers getting open, must see them in a window. Inconsistent accuracy due to poor footwork and falling away to avoid a big hit. Despite athleticism, needs to improve his drop mechanics and the finer points of pocket mobility. Numerous off the field issues worth investigating."
Some very important aspects of being a quarterback are knocked on Newton. Doesn’t make progressions, reads. Doesn’t anticipate, accuracy issues. Then there are the off the field concerns that led him to leave Florida, go to Blinn and then end up at Auburn.
Some thought the Panthers would be better off going with a safe pick over Newton. There were thoughts that he would be a big time Franchise QB but that was full of projection as obvious by the weaknesses noted above.
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