Reports out of the Carolina training camp, at Wofford College in Spartanburg, S.C. have Panthers QB Cam Newton heading into the 2012 NFL season as a "comfortable and confident" sophomore. NFL.com has reported that the 2011 Offensive Rookie of the Year looks impressive as "The ball just explodes out of his hand and soars to its target. It sizzles." This is good news as Newton looks to become a more polished passer in his second season.
Fantasy Analysis:
It's also a huge positive that Newton spent most of the offseason hunkered down in a mini "mind training camp" at the Panthers' main training facility. Hopefully all the film study he's been doing will help his 17 INT - 35 sacks stat line from last season. Hey, we're just saying! We know Newton had a stud rookie season. To repeat his lofty fantasy numbers in 2012 he needs to cut down on his mistakes and improve on his 21 passing touchdowns. Defensive coordinators across the NFL have had a full offseason to study Newton and his 14 rushing touchdowns.
Remember, no sports league on the planet game plans better than the National Football League. Eagles QB Michael Vck posted nine rushing TD's in 2010 – he came back with one last season. Vikings QB Dante Culpepper registered ten RTD in 2002 and had just four the following season. Personally, I will be surprised if Newton reaches the 14 RTD level again. That means his 21 passing TD number is going to have to go way up. Newton gets the Buccanneers twice again this season - plus the Raiders at home on Fantasy Football Campionship Sunday. He will be one of the top five quarterbacks selected during your 2012 Fantasy Draft Day.
