Cam Newton: Projecting Panthers QB's Fantasy Week 5 Fantasy Value

Cam Newton has emerged as very good fantasy football option.  He has surprised the entire league with his ability to move the Panthers offense.  If you own Newton, he was likely a wavier wire addition or a late-round selection.

I feel it is safe to say that Newton is someone you should consider starting every week.  He has faced several tough defense and was still able to produce.  Last week, he faced a Chicago Bears defense that is highly regarded.  However, he finished the game with over 340 yards passing, a passing touchdown and two rushing touchdowns.

Newton's dual-threat ability is an added value.  It means that he is a threat to pick up yards with his feet or even score a rushing touchdown.  For fantasy purposes, you want a quarterback that is capable of scoring in many different ways.

One would think that a rookie quarterback wouldn't have great fantasy value, but Newton appears to be the exception.  He is completing almost 60 percent of his passes, while only throwing five interceptions.  Newton has done a good job putting up big numbers, while also avoiding a ton of mistakes.

Today's matchup versus the New Orleans Saints is going to be a tough test.  The Saints defensive coordinator Greg Williams loves to bring pressure.  He is known for his ability to draw up unique and exotic blitz packages.  Newton is going to have to be able to identify the blitz and find his hot read.

One of the toughest thing for a rookie quarterback is learning to identify the blitz.  Newton's fantasy value is lowered by his matchup.  He could still be effective, but also could have a few turnovers. 

However, Newton's athletic ability is the game-changer.  He has the ability to extend plays and shake off tacklers.  There are two ways to beat the blitz finding your hot receiver or moving around the pocket.

Jon Dove is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report, covering the NFL and NFL draft. Check him out on Twitter @Jon_Dove42.