Cam Newton Passes Steve Young for Most Rushing TDs by a QB in NFL History

Cam Newton is picking up the 2016 season where he left off a year ago when he was named the league's MVP.

The Carolina Panthers quarterback scored on a scramble in the first half of the season opener against the Denver Broncos on Thursday, putting him in the NFL record books, per Steve Reed of the Associated Press:

He now has 44 rushing touchdowns in his career, passing Steve Young (43) for the NFL record.

The NFL showed the record-setting touchdown:

Newton had tied Young's record at the end of last season as part of his 10 rushing touchdowns on the season. His career high came in his rookie year when he tallied 14 scores on the ground.

Although the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback was jealous of Newton's physical prowess and offensive playbook, he praised the young signal-caller for his ability to improve mentally. Young explained last season, per David Newton of ESPN.com:

"

The patience in the pocket. Moving people with his eyes. The subtleties, which tells you he's slowed his mind down. You're actually picking people out and dictating to defenses, not just playing and reacting.

Cam, with proper help, can run the table on defenses. Because once you're both physical and intellectual, that's rare air.

"

Newton has been an incredible runner throughout his career, coming into this season with 3,207 rushing yards in five seasons. However, 2015 was the first time he posted a quarterback rating better than 90, ending with a mark of 99.4. His 35 passing touchdowns and 10 interceptions were also career bests.

Unsurprisingly, the Panthers succeeded as well to the tune of a 15-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance.

As the 27-year-old continues to improve his all-around game, he could end up being almost unstoppable for opposing defenses.