The Draft, not the one in my work shorts.

One of the most highly anticipated sporting events every year for myself.  The NFL Draft.  Its the day that every first round pick has more "upside" than not.  Every pick is a good pick..Sarcasm.  The days after the first are the best.

I am a Panthers fan.  Not sure what I think about the draft pick.  He is an amazing athlete and has a winning charisma.  But will he work to improve on being a prototypical QB, because those are the ones who succeed in the NFL.  Recent examples; Jamarcus Russell, Vince Young, are busts.  They are great athletes, but did not work hard to be a great player.  On the other hand; Philip Rivers, Donovan Mcnabb and Mike Vick.  These guys had to work to become more of that prototypical QB.  If Can Newton can become more of a pocket presence like Donovan and Vick have become, he will be successful.  If he does not, he will be Jamarcus Russel part two.

This move leads me to believe that the parents probably will not be able to get a second round pick this year. I could be wrong, but if they thought they would be able to trade into the second round I would have expected A WR or DL.  Why I think Can will be successful.  He is going to a team who was not good last year.  He is also going to a team with a very good defense, very good running backs and this team is full of great leadership.  He is going into a locker room with Jordan Gross and Jon Beason, as well as others.  These guys are going to get him pointed in the right direction and lock down on him.  Also I believe Steve Smith will be in the locker room, he will be a guide for Newton.
Why I believe he will not succeed.  He has been great at every level, and in a short amount of time.  His athletic ability is so high that he has not needed to be a great tactician.  Well, the NFL is a league of tacticians,  athletes are unbelievable atletes, but people do not understand how smart these guys are.  They also do not understand how quick their brain works during the decision making progress.  Newton is going to be just another big fast guy.  Can he progress through the tough times.  Can he handle the pressure as well as the struggles of not winning.  In summary, Can Cam learn fast enough without getting discouraged and not get the I AM GOD syndrome.

I hope he succeeds.  As a Panther's fan and a football fan.  If Cam can not "get the big head" and he accpets learning, he will be fine.

Let me know what you guys think.  This will be open for discussion.  pass the post along and let's get some discussion going!!

Paul