Cameron Newton is interviewed during the 2011 NFL

Cameron Newton is interviewed during the 2011 NFL - The Carolina Panthers have selected Auburn quarterback Cam Newton with the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, gambling that the Heisman Trophy winner will overcome questions about his character and work ethic to become the first franchise quarterback in team history.

A year after going 2-14 with the NFL's worst offense, the Panthers on Thursday night bypassed safer selections such as Alabama defensive tackle Marcell Dareus and LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson for Newton, who dazzled in his only season playing major college football.

The 6-foot-5, 248-pound Newton accounted for 50 touchdowns and led the Tigers to the national championship last season despite an NCAA investigation that his father concocted a pay-for-play scheme during his recruitment.

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2011 NFL Draft: Drafting Quarterbacks Isn't An Exact Science

 2011 NFL Draft: Drafting Quarterbacks Isn't An Exact Science - Yes, I know the Rams aren't looking for a QB, but this piece is interesting after having seen them draft a QB last year who was particularly successful as a rookie, despite not meeting all of Bill Parcels' requirements.

The NFL Playoffs are happening, with some good games on the docket too, but you know it's the holiday season when Mel Kiper's 2011 mock draft makes its first appearance. Practices have wrapped up for the East-West Shrine Game, with the actual game set for Saturday. Next week, it's the Senior Bowl. Here's a little draft reading to put you to sleep, or keep you up at night.

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