Auburn Quarterback Cam Newton Will Enter 2011 NFL Draft After Winning BCS Title

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Cam Newton of Auburn, will enter the 2011 NFL Draft, according to a letter released by the university Thursday night.

The star quarterback led Auburn to a perfect 14-0 record and a BCS Championship over the Oregon Ducks this season, but has been at the center of a pay-for-play controversy.

According to an Associated Press article on ESPN.com, last updated on Jan. 13, 2011, Newton made the decision to turn pro after meeting with some of his Auburn coaches.

"This decision was difficult for me and my family," Newton said, adding that he made it after talking to coach Gene Chizik and offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.

Newton was a spectacular dual-threat quarterback at Auburn, bulling over linebackers in the rushing attack, and throwing many touchdown passes.

Newton's spectacular play helped lead the Tigers to their first national title since 1957, and with defensive star Nick Fairley expected to enter the NFL draft too, coach Chizik will have his work cut out for him in 2011.

Fairley is expected to make his decision on whether or not to return to Auburn next season on Friday in his hometown of Mobile, Alabama.

The Carolina Panthers hold the first pick in the upcoming draft, and Fairley would be a great player to rebuild their defensive line after the departure of defensive end Julius Peppers last offseason.

Newton's eligibility has often been in question this season, with his Dad allegedly selling his son's talent to the highest bidder.

The NCAA has not closed the case on Newton, but during the week of the SEC Championship, they said they had no evidence of Newton knowing about any wrongdoings by his father.

It is unclear if Newton's personal accomplishments and/or Auburn's team accomplishments will ever be revoked, but for now Auburn is the best team in the land, and Newton the best player.