Cam Newton is one of the most physically imposing and gifted quarterbacks in NFL history.
It wasn’t easy to take him down, not just because of his elusiveness and quick feet but also because of his strong build.
Nonetheless, even the big guys get knocked down every now and then, and Newton had his fair share of big hits throughout the course of his career.
Recently, the former MVP recalled the hardest hit he took in his career, talking about the one time he was laying on the field for quite a while during his rookie season (via 4th and 1 Show).
“Brian Orakpo, rookie year,” Newton said.
https://t.co/pKutIXCOjf pic.twitter.com/cGcbAem4UW
— 4thand1show (@4thand1show) March 23, 2024
Newton was often on the wrong end of a sack.
Even though he was big, fast, tough, and athletic, he rarely played behind a solid offensive line, and he was punished over and over.
Unfortunately, that also took a big toll on his career.
That’s not much of a surprise, as there’s only so much burden a body can withstand.
Even so, he managed to have a better career than most modern-day quarterbacks, laying the blueprint for other mobile and dual-threat gunslingers such as Lamar Jackson.
Newton ran away with one MVP and led the Carolina Panthers to the Super Bowl.
And even if he couldn’t retire on his own terms, no one can deny his resiliency and toughness in this game.
NEXT: Steve Smith Sr. Rips Panthers' Coaching Staff From Last Season