Super Bowl 50: 5 Things to Know About Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton
— -- Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton has been compared to Superman thanks to the football star's ability to leap over linemen in a single bound.
The 26-year-old’s superhero skills will be tested next month when he makes his Super Bowl debut, leading the Panthers against Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50.
Here are five things to know about Newton ahead of the Feb. 7 face-off in Santa Clara, California.
1. He Pitches Too.
Even non-football watchers know Newton thanks to his role as pitchman for products ranging from headphones to Gatorade and yogurt.
2. He’s Bigger Than a Pro Football Hall of Fame Defensive Lineman.
At 6’5” and 245 pounds, Newton is bigger than former New York Giants player and "Good Morning America" co-host Michael Strahan.
3. He Has Fans "Dabbing."
Newton’s signature move has become a craze. The NFL star pulls his elbow up by his shoulder and "dabs" his head into his arm after his best plays.
4. He’s Come Back From Serious Injury.
Newton suffered two fractures in his back after a December 2014 two-car collision near Charlotte, North Carolina. Newton’s car flipped after he swerved to avoid a driver who didn't see him coming, according to a police report at the time.
5. He’s a New Dad.
Newton became a first-time dad on Christmas Eve. His son is named Chosen Sebastian, a name that he said “would be masculine, but yet unique,” according to ESPN.
