Quarterback development has been one of the biggest problems in the NFL in the last few years. One of the most iconic and entertaining quarterbacks of all time, Cam Newton, recently spoke on that issue.
On an episode of ‘Closed on Sundays with Pat and Terrion’, Newton was asked for his thoughts on quarterback development in the league. He has been very vocal on the subject in the past, so he was asked whether the status has improved at all.
Newton said that quarterbacks today aren’t given time to settle in and find their rhythm before being handed the responsibility of an entire franchise. He referred to himself as someone who managed to thrive despite the expectation.
The idea of making a rookie quarterback the “savior” of a team is unfair, and very few manage to push through that weight. Newton believes that players often fail to showcase their full potential because of the expectation.
“You’re drafted to play now,” Newton said. “That impacts development.”
Cam believes QBs being drafted to save NFL franchises negatively impacts their development 😳
“In other eras … quarterbacks were not asked to be the savior, not this fast.” pic.twitter.com/z53MeTZRLI
— Closed on Sundays with Pat and Terrion (@closedsundaypod) December 29, 2025
Newton said that quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield end up becoming journeymen before they can even find their style and place, and that’s happening because they are expected to hit the ground running after being drafted.
Highlighting the stark difference in approach, Newton said that earlier good quarterbacks were drafted only to be around the team and learn the game slowly for a few seasons. Now, they’re expected to have a breakout rookie season.
The issue is also because of how much the college football landscape has changed. Players are coming out of college much sharper than they used to. The expectations in the NFL are a direct result of that.
Whatever the case might be, a lack of structure around developing quarterbacks is hurting the league.
The Financial Aspect of the Problem Outlined by Cam Newton
Newton mainly focused on the talent that is being lost in the absence of a proper process. While that argument is valid, there’s also a financial aspect of it that is largely being ignored by the teams losing money.
As per a recent report by The Sun, since 2020, 19 quarterbacks have been first-round picks in the drafts. Out of those 19, eight quarterbacks have been benched by their respective teams for inconsistency and poor play in their short careers so far.
The combined earnings of these quarterbacks are $334 million. The biggest contributor on this list is Tua Tagovailoa, who makes $124 million. This is a serious problem that is being overlooked right now.
Read More:
Johnny Manziel Makes Heisman Favorite Very Clear With 3 Word Message
Big Ten Injury Report Week 7: Who’s In And Who’s Out? Ft. Lorenzo Styles Jr, Tony Rojas, and More
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
