The 2024 Draft is finally here, and speculations are more rampant than ever! Quarterback Caleb Williams seems to be the unanimous projection for the No. 1 pick. The USC athlete has even drawn comparisons to the Chiefs three-time MVP for his throwing skills.

With his 93 touchdowns, 9,782 passing yards, and 735 completions last year with the Trojans, the Patrick Mahomes comparison doesn’t seem out of place, but many analysts feel the QB is getting over-hyped. One such opinion was voiced by former NFL quarterback Cam Newton, who highlighted one major flaw that could prove to be the downfall of the soon-to-be rookie.

Caleb Williams’ gift that might turn into a curse

Cam Newton had some interesting takes about this year’s draft prospects on his 4th&1 podcast. Starting with Williams, the former Panthers QB pointed out one major drawback that could prove to be a hindrance for the future rookie. “I think his gift can and possibly will be his curse,” he said. “His inability to make the bold play…”

Apart from the hesitancy to make daring moves on the field, Newton agrees with Williams’ comparison to Kansas City’s Super Bowl Champion. “Obviously, everybody says Caleb Williams’ NFL comparison will be Patrick Mahomes…it’s a big comparison, I think it’s an accurate comparison though, too. He’s very skillful while throwing on the run, and when scrambling, he’s not just looking to run.”

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However, with big comparisons come bigger expectations. And no one would know the baggage of being the top pick of the Draft better than the 2011 draft’s top position holder. Newton talked about how being the most-talked-about player is not a bed of roses.

Cam Newton talks about the pressures of being the No. 1 pick

When he got picked by the Panthers as the first rookie of the 2011 Draft, Newton started his journey in professional football with high hopes. Initially, he did shine, winning an MVP, a Super Bowl appearance, and a Pro Bowl thrice till 2015. However, after some injury-riddled seasons limited his play, the quarterback moved to the background of the league. Giving a reality check of the league’s pressure, the former top pick said, “But my concern will be how does he manage the expectations of being the projected No. 1 because it’s not going to be all peaches and cream, bro. It’s not. It is not…Mothef–kers get an opportunity to knock your head off, they’re gonna try to knock your f–king head off.”

So what is the solution? Newton had some insights into this dilemma, too, in a recent appearance on GMF. He recollected the exhilaration one feels to be in the spotlight with everyone around excited for the final announcement. Moreover, the highly projected athletes have the security of soon getting “financial freedom” and starting a new life on the big stage. His simple advice? “Just live in the moment.”

Cam Newton has some interesting insights into what goes behind the scenes of what seems like a glittery opportunity for the top projected rookies who suddenly plummet into popularity with the Draft. Whether Caleb Williams becomes the No. 1 pick or not will soon be clear for all, and hopefully the quarterback will rise over the pressure and cement a place for himself in the NFL.