When the Carolina Panthers selected quarterback Cam Newton first overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, much was made about his collegiate history. There were some issues surrounding Newton as he originally attended the University of Florida and transferred to Blinn College, before leading the Auburn Tigers to a national championship. Regardless, former owner Jerry Richardson and the team needed a franchise quarterback and an athletic Newton provided the answer.
Fast-forward eight seasons and the Panthers have enjoyed their most consistent success to date, despite still not registering back-to-back winning seasons. In Newton’s tenure, Carolina has won the NFC South division three times, been to the playoffs for half of his career and appeared in a Super Bowl.