Cam Newton: Why the NFL Scouting Combine Will Not Help His Draft Stock

Cam Newton has a lot to prove over the next week at the NFL Scouting Combine.

I think it's pretty safe to say Newton will dominate the physical tests. He will outscore every opposing quarterback on the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, shuttle run, three-cone drill and even probably the bench press.

The problem is, everybody already expects this to happen. Is it really going to help Newton out if he runs the fastest 40-yard dash time? No, because it's already expected. It's not going to help him in any way.

Now what happens if he slips up? If Newton runs the 40-yard dash two tenths of a second slower than expected. Will it hurt his stock? Probably not, but it will be discussed, that's for sure.

Newton also announced he is going to throw at the combine. Is this really a big deal? Everybody knows that he can throw the ball. He has good footwork, and a quick release. All coaches have to do is go look at the tape, they don't need him to show it at the combine.

The struggles for Newton aren't going to come on the field. They are going to come in the back room, when he has to answer to the coaches.

First off, there is little evidence that shows Newton is mentally prepared to run an NFL offense. In Auburn he relied solely on that athleticism to get the job done. It will help him in the pros, but I don't think Newton realizes that his athleticism alone won't be enough.

Then of course, we have the character issues. I'm not talking about the receiving money nonsense. I'm sure Newton knows the ins and outs on how to answer those questions.

I'm sure by now everyone has heard about Newton's interview with Sports Illustrated's Peter King. In case you didn't, here is a quick recap.

"I see myself not only as a football player, but an entertainer and icon".

That led to a sudden outburst across the nation. It's something I just can't seem to figure out. This is nothing new for Newton. The guy has been arrogant long before he said that.

It's quite simple, Cam Newton lacks the maturity that is needed to be an NFL quarterback. He got in trouble at Florida. He faced the money dilemma at Auburn. He shows no signs of growing up.

If there is one position that you need to be mature, that you need to be a leader, it's quarterback. Take a look at Mike Vick or Ben Roethlisberger. It doesn't work out.

Newton is going to impress during the physical workouts at the combine. That goes without saying. However, when it comes time for him to sit down with coaches and prove that he is the person that can lead their team, everything he proved on the field will be quickly forgotten.