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Cam Newton leaves Auburn for NFL draft

BCS Championship Football

Auburn’s Cam Newton celebrates with fans after beating Oregon 22-19 in the BCS National Championship NCAA college football game Monday, Jan. 10, 2011, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

AP

In news that should come as a surprise to no one, Auburn’s Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Cam Newton is leaving school to enter the NFL draft.

“This decision was difficult for me and my family,” Newton said. “I think it is best that I make that next step in my career and forgo my senior season and enter the NFL Draft. It was a very hard decision for me, especially after coming off the great season we had at Auburn. I’m blessed to have been around an excellent environment and have great teammates, coaches and support from the Auburn family.”

Opinions diverge on what kind of pro player Newton will be: He’s a great athlete with a good arm, but he hasn’t played in a pro-style offense, and his considerable skills in the spread attack won’t necessarily translate to the NFL.

Of course, whether Newton is ready for the pro game or not, he’s surely ready to leave college and the constant NCAA scrutiny he’s endured during his season at Auburn.