Cam Newton to enter NFL Draft

After leading Auburn to the school’s second national championship, Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton will enter the NFL draft.

“This decision was difficult for me and my family,” Newton said in a statement. “After talking to Coach (Gene) Chizik and Coach (Gus) Malzahn, I think it is best that I make that next step in my career and forgo my senior season and enter the NFL Draft. It was a very hard decision for me, especially after coming off the great season we had at Auburn. I’m blessed to have been around an excellent environment and have great teammates, coaches and support from the Auburn family.”

Newton currently is projected to be a first-round pick on Mel Kiper’s Big Board after a season rushing for 1,473 yards and 20 touchdowns and throwing for 2,854 yards and 30 scores.

“We appreciate Cameron’s many contributions to Auburn and the outstanding leader that he was for our football team,” Chizik said. “He had one of the greatest individual seasons ever by an Auburn player and was a key part of our championship run. Cam will always be a member of the Auburn family and we wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

Newton has been playing the better part of the this season with ongoing NCAA investigations into the actions of his father, Cecil Newton, during recruiting. It was determined Cecil Newton solicited money from representatives of Mississippi State.