2011 NFL Draft – Pick 1: Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers

By Cory J. Bonini on April 28, 2011

The Carolina Panthers selected Auburn quarterback Cam Newton with the first overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft.

Can Cam turn around the Panthers?

Fantasy analysis: Newton enters a tough situation and has a long road ahead of him before fantasy owners can rely on him. The Panthers have to remain a run-first offense to have any chance at success in 2011. Their offensive weaponry is limited, at best, and their offensive line has injury concerns.

Newton has to transition from the spread offense, learn to make NFL reads, and digest an advanced play-calling system. He comes from a one-read-and-go system at Auburn, which has him behind the proverbial eight ball.

Don't expect Newton to see meaningful action until late in the season, and we obviously don't even know if Carolina will bring in a veteran passer for Newton to learn behind.

Owners in full-retention keeper leagues can consider Newton if they have stash room, but be patience until he commands fantasy lineup attention. He has no single-year value in fantasy football drafts.