ESPN's Sports Center and espn.com reports that Cam Newton will skip his senior season and declare for the NFL draft.
Newton is one-and-done as a major college starting quarterback, after sweeping the postseason awards and winning a national championship. Newton rushed for 1,473 yards and 20 touchdowns and passed for 2,854 yards and 30 TDs while leading the Tigers to their second NCAA title and 7th SEC Championship.
The NCAA investigation into allegations of recruiting improprieties continues. His father attempted to solicit $180,000 from Mississippi State during his recruitment, and may have ties to a group of Auburn boosters currently under FBI investigation for money laundering and election tampering.
NFL scouts generally praise his size and physical tools, but are uncertain about his ability to read defenses and throw out of a pro style offense. He's likely to be a first-round draft pick, but there are still question marks whether his skills translate to the pro game. Is he another Michael Vick, Randall Cunningham, Tim Tebow or Vince Young? Running quarterbacks often have mixed results, and a short shelf life in a league where linebackers and defensive ends can match their size and agility.
Newton told the media, "Auburn is a special place that I can call home." Apparently not special enough to complete two years at the school that resurrected his athletic career.
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