After a season in which he carried the Panthers to the Super Bowl, the fantasy expectations for quarterback Cam Newton were astronomical in 2016. He and the rest of the Panthers failed to deliver, however, as Newton threw for just 19 touchdowns.
Fantasy football start/sit advice, Week 1: Cam Newton
The Panthers’ best player will be expected to perform in spite of injury on Sunday. We break down the fantasy implications.
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The good news is the Panthers aren’t as bad as what they showed last season, and the turn of the calendar marks a new opportunity to perform. Newton has struggled throughout the preseason with a shoulder injury, but he should be able to pick apart the 49ers.
Fantasy impact: A big game to start the season would do a lot for fantasy owners as far as gaining confidence in Newton. The fact that he leaves the pocket is always going to make owners nervous but it’s part of what makes him a great player. The 49ers weren’t very good against anybody last year and 2017 represents an opportunity to rebuild. Expect Newton to put up big numbers to open the season.
Recommendation: Start
