Cameron “Cam” Jerrell Newton (born May 11, 1989 in College Park, Georgia) was the former starting quarterback for Auburn University during the 2010-2011 football season. Before becoming a tiger, Newton was initially a member of the University of Florida Gators (Gainesville) in 2007 and 2008. He would later transfer to Blinn College (Texas), where his team won a national junior college football championship in 2009. Newton was then recruited by head coach Gene Chizik of Auburn University and transferred once more. He became just the third player in major college football history to pass for 30 touchdowns and rush for 20 touchdowns in a single season.
On December 11, 2010, he was awarded the Heisman Trophy as the most outstanding college football player. During his first season at Auburn, Newton led the top-ranked Auburn Tigers to a 13-0 record and 2010 National Championship Title. In addition, Newton is the recipient of the 2010 Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award, the Maxwell Award and the Walter Camp Player of the Year winner. The Associated Press (AP) and Sports Illustrated first team All-American was also named Offensive Player of the Year by the AP and Scout.com.
Newton finished the season ranked first in the nation in total points responsible for (21.84 per game) and in passing efficiency with a rating of 182.05. He also led the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in rushing (105.21 yards) and total offense (309.07 yards), and became the first player in SEC history and the eighth different player in NCAA history to pass for over 2,000 yards and rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season. Cam was selected by the Carolina Panthers as the Number Draft pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. During his inaugural season, he broke several records including Most Passing Yards by a rookie quarterback and was named AP Offensive Rookie of the Year and Pepsi Cola Rookie of the year.
Cameron Newton, the son of Cecil and Jackie Newton, attended Westlake High School in Atlanta where he amassed numerous accolades as well. In addition to his commitment to football, Newton is dedicated to giving back to his community and began serving youth as a Freshmen at the University of Florida via mentoring and motivational speaking. His allegiance to youth continued at Auburn University where he devoted significant time to inspiring elementary students to be the best they can be. He has always held a tender spot in his heart for children and is committed to enhancing the comprehensive development of “every” child.
