TheGrio's 100: Cam Newton, NFL rookie and Heisman Trophy winner breaks records

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At just 22 years old, Cam Newton is making history in football. Newton is the third player ever to win the Heisman Trophy and be the first overall pick in the NFL draft within the same year. Now, he’s the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year

Newton played football for two other colleges — the University of Florida and moving on to Blinn College in Texas — before being recruited to play for Auburn University. While at Auburn he led his team to win the BCS National Championship Game, a first in the school’s history.

Newton faced much scrutiny in 2010 over rumors his father, former NFL player Cecil Newton, Sr., sought money in exchange for his son to play for a college team. Last October, the NCAA closed its 13-month investigation into the matter when it could not find evidence of wrongdoing in Newton’s recruitment to Auburn. The lack of evidence resulted in Newton’s eligibility to be considered for the Heisman Trophy, which he won in 2010.

Newton now plays for the Carolina Panthers, where he became the first rookie quarterback in the NFL to throw 400 yards in his regular season opener. He also has set the rookie record for passing yards in a season (4,051) and set the record for most rushing touchdowns (13) by a quarterback in a season.

Cam Newton is making history… a one of the most talented rookie NFL quarterbacks in recent history. His athleticism on the field has garnered national attention, despite his previous controversy.

What’s next for Cam?

Since signing his four-year, $22 million deal with the Carolina Panthers last year, Newton has been named their starting quarterback, and he continues to wow fans with his playmaking ability.

A little-known fact about Cam’s siblings

Newton’s older brother, Cecil Newton, Jr., is a center for the Baltimore Ravens.

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