Fantasy Upside

Cam Newton’s best fantasy asset is his ability to make up for bad passing games with rushing production. Last year, he rushed for 488 yards and four touchdowns to go along with 3,395 yards and 24 touchdowns through the air. In his first season under Norv Turner, he completed a career-high 67.9% of his passes and he has arguably the best pass-catching back in the league in Christian McCaffrey to help him out. D.J. Moore, Curtis Samuel and McCaffrey create a tremendous array of weapons for Newton and as long as he stays healthy, he should be a consistent fantasy producer.

Fantasy Downside

Newton’s body has been breaking down over the past few seasons due to the number of vicious hits he’s subjected to. He’s had at least 90 carries every season of his eight-year career, and defenders tee off on him. He’s coming off a shoulder surgery and at age 30, he could struggle to take the same punishment he’s used to. He missed two games last season and was banged up all year.

2019 Bottom Line

Newton has some risk associated with him because of his potential for injury, but he’s currently being undervalued. He’s accounted for at least 28 touchdowns in three of his past four seasons and has arguably the best set of weapons he’s ever had. He’s a bargain at his ninth-round ADP and is evidence that the quarterback position continues to be filled with talent in the middle rounds.