When rookie quarterbacks start out in the NFL many think one of two things; this individual will spend a lot of time on the bench, or this individual will surprise many. Luckily for Cam Newton and Robert Griffin III they had outstanding seasons between the two of them. What happens when it comes down to your selection and you are forced to choose between the two? Here are some comparisons, and advice on who will take you to the top.
Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers
Your mom’s favorite quarterback had an impressive season last year with 3,996 total yards, 27 touchdowns, and 16 starts. Mind you, in his first two seasons, he has rushed for 253 times for 1,447 yards and 22 touchdowns. He has dropped a little weight since last season which will only help his ability when it comes to his rushes.
Wide Receiver Steve Smith gives him a boost with 1,174 receiving yards last year and four touchdowns. Newton’s rating when operating out of the shotgun was 82.9. Expect him to go over 4,000 yards easily for your 2013 season.
Projections: 4,000 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, 11 interceptions
Robert Griffin III, Washington Redskins
RG3 has been looking strong after an ACL and LCL surgery in his off season. He has been cutting well during drills, and still has a couple check-ups with Dr. James Andrews. The question on every fantasy player’s mind is: Will he be healthy and worth drafting? Absolutely. Griffin is confident in himself and his season, and with his work ethic, he guarantees good numbers for fantasy owners. Last season, Griffin had 4026 yards under his belt with 27 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Very impressive numbers for the rookie quarterback. He has a strong team behind him as well.
Runningback Alfred Morris (1610 rushing yards, 13 touchdowns, seven 100+ rushing games in 2012) is expected to put up strong fantasy numbers as well as wide receiver Josh Morgan (510 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and 31.9 yards per game in 2012) in the field to help Griffin.
Projections: 4,101 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, 7 interceptions
Comparison
So who do you chose? The beauty of this decision is, whomever you get on your roster, you will not be disappointed. However, this season, we deal with the two quarterbacks sophomore years in the NFL. Some fantasy players may be hesitant to snag RG3 because of the surgery, but do not hesitate. When it comes down to the two, I suggest taking Griffin. No offense to the peanut butter and jelly man, but Robert Griffin III is the pick.