NFL Draft 2011:Cameron Newton, the Icon of Scouting Combine?

Before the start of the NFL Scouting Combine, quarterback Cameron Newton told reporters that he does not see himself as just a football player, but more like "an entertainer and icon."

It looks as though Newton will at least play one game of NFL football, even after a less-than-spectacular throwing performance at the Combine. Scouts still think that Newton's natural talents, his strong arm, his powerful stride, and unshakable confidence, are enough to ensure success at the next level.

For Newton, however, running and throwing maybe a minor element in his superstardom.

The 21-year-old Heisman Trophy Winner has signed with IMG Worldwide, a media production and talent representation firm with a foot in most media doorways.

With IMG developing the Cam Newton brand, Newton could be right by the time all is said and done, he may very well be an icon.

If Newton's arm is slow to develop, he already possesses the jaw line, the smile and the body to do the modeling.

Like Mark Sanchez before him, who was featured in a GQ spread frolicking on the beach like David Hasselhoff, Newton may have a future in print media. Plus, IMG has a hand in representing both models and designers.

As I mentioned in a previous article, expect to see Newton in shoulder pads on Sunday, and in Armani underwear at the newsstand on Tuesday morning.

IMG Worldwide also produces reality television. Not to say there are plans for a reality show starring Newton, but if Chad Ochocinco got a dating show, why not give Newton a documentary–esque show profiling the young QB's first taste of the NFL?

People love redemption stories and, considering all Newton has been through in the last year, he has much to prove.

Though football fans don't know what to make of Newton, or his comments, he may end up being the only working player from the 2011 NFL Draft come this fall.

The possibility of a lockout still hangs over the head of the NFL. Without football, something will need to fill the gigantic whole left in the 24 hour media schedule.

Television and the web are media monsters with an insatiable appetite.

A healthy helping of Cameron Newton may be next on the menu.