With a talented senior line graduating, Auburn will now also have to fill its quarterback spot.
The junior quarterback has decided to forego his senior year and declare for the 2011 National Football League Draft.
"This decision was difficult for me and my family," Newton said. "After talking to Coach Chizik and Coach Malzahn, 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."
Newton also earned the Walter Camp Award, Associated Press Player of the Year award, the Maxwell Award and the Dave O'Brian Award for his record breaking performance throughout the season. The junior rushed for 1,473 yards and 20 touchdowns while passing for 2,854 yards and 30 touchdowns while breaking numerous Auburn single-season records.
These records included rushing, passing, touchdowns responsible for total offense and rushing yards by a quarterback.
"It's been a blessing for me to be a part of something so great," Newton said. "Any time you win games it's a big deal, but for this school to win a BCS National Championship, what a way to make people happy. Auburn is a special place that I can call home."
The first round of the 2011 NFL Draft will start Thursday, April 28, followed by rounds two and three Friday, April 29.
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