There were no other rookies from this April's draft who came with more intrique than Cam Newton. Some professed that Newton is not a starting NFL QB. Regardless, the Panthers took the Auburn QB first overall. And in their defense, the Panthers have done well by Newton in the preseason. He was just named the Week 1 starter, mostly due to Jimmy Clausen having a mediocre preseason performance as well.

So then, the question needs to be asked, what value does Cam Newton have in the fantasy football world?

In dynasty/keeper leagues, I like Newton, above all the other rookie QBs. I think with his athletic ability, his large frame and his ability to scramble and make passes makes him an excellent "project" for your fantasy squad. I would not recommend doing what the Panthers are doing with Cam, for your squad. Newton is NOT ready to be a fantasy football starter for your team. But, he can be a bye week fill-in for you. And here's why.

Newton will likely finish second in the NFL (behind Michael Vick) in rushing and rushing TDs, from the quarterback position. This does carry some value. Last year, Vick's numbers were so overinflated because of his gawdy rushing yards and 9 rushing TDs. Think of Newton as producing RB3-type of stats, but from the quarterback position.

His passing stats will be near the bottom of all fantasy quarterbacks and he will probably have a lot of interceptions as he struggles under center to learn how to be an NFL QB. But, for those times when he will make a play with his legs, you can suffer with Newton as your second or third QB for your fantasy squad.

If your league is a keeper or dynasty format, then take Newton confidently and you just might have yourself a QB who EVENTUALLY will put up top 15 QB numbers. Just realize that won't be this year.

Follow Jimmy Dinsmore on Twitter @wheelseditor

Fantasy Football cam newton, carolina panthers