Cam Newton

Week 16 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Cam Newton has a rushing touchdown in each of his five games with the Panthers this year, but he also has just four passing touchdowns and four interceptions. He’s averaging a mere 154 passing yards per start and has been benched multiple times. While he has upside due to his rushing ability, the chances he gets pulled at any moment – Matt Rhule has already said Sam Darnold may play some – make him too risky to trust in most leagues, even in a good matchup against a Buccaneers defense that ranks 18th in aFPA to opposing quarterbacks. Look elsewhere if possible.

Week 14 vs. Atlanta Falcons

Cam Newton was awful against the Dolphins before the bye last week, throwing for 92 yards and a pair of interceptions before getting benched. He did run in a touchdown, but it was a miserable performance in general for the Panthers’ offense.

This week, Newton faces a Falcons defense that ranks 28th in aFPA to opposing quarterbacks. With a great matchup and his rushing potential, Cam is back to fringe QB1 status this week. Hopefully he can shake off that tough outing against the Dolphins and beat up on a familiar old foe. There’s always risk with Cam, but his upside is enough to make him worth streaming if you need help.

Week 11 vs. Washington Football Team

Cam Newton had quite a return to Carolina last week. Despite not starting, he played several plays and scored a touchdown on each of his first two snaps – one rushing, one passing. Newton is being prepped to start this week against Washington, and his dual-threat value makes him an interesting waiver-wire addition.

This week, Newton faces a Washington defense that ranks dead last in aFPA to opposing quarterbacks. Assuming he does in fact get the start – as expected – fantasy managers should consider him a fringe QB1 option. He was productive last year with the Patriots because of his rushing production, and this Panthers team is arguably more talented than what he worked with last season.