The Quarterback Revolution

Cam Newton/AP Images

Many were skeptical about how Cam Newton’s skills would translate into the NFL; however, after a phenomenal rookie season, he is changing how the position is played.

By Ryan McGlynn

The Carolina Panthers selected Cam Newton, National Champion and Heisman Trophy winner out of Auburn, in last years NFL Draft with the number one overall pick. While this was not a surprise, it was criticized for many different reasons. After his unprecedented rookie season, not only did he silence his doubters, he is changing how the position will be played in the future. 

Going into the draft experts critiqued Newton's ability to play in the NFL. Many thought that he was not smart enough to play the position or that his ego would get in the way of his performance. More importantly, they slated his ability to play the position at the next level. They felt as though he was more of an athlete than quarterback and his time in the spread offense with Auburn would hurt him. He was compared to former bust Vince Young who played a similar style of the position that of which is very different from Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, and Peyton Manning, the current models of a great quarterback. The next generation of great quarterbacks will be modeled after Newton. This was first brought up by expert Trent Dilfer who said Newton’s style of play “is the new trend for NFL quarterbacks.” The key to Newton’s success is his ability to throw the ball well along with everything else he brings to the table. The multiple scenarios of pass, run or QB run plus the down make it impossible for defenses to react well.

The only question is whether or not this style of play is sustainable, and that is what we have to wait and see. Robert Griffen III is projected to go number four overall to the Cleveland Browns in this years draft while Andrew Luck is projected to go number one. Only time will tell which one of these great young talents will be more successful with their different styles of playing the position, but do not be surprised to see more and more elite quarterbacks in the NFL play like Newton.