Fantasy Football 2015: Top 20 Quarterbacks

Nov 30, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) passes against the Minnesota Vikings in the third quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

9. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

There are a number of ways Cam Newton can beat you. He can beat you in the air, but more importantly — with his legs. 

Dec 7, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) reacts against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Newton as a passer alone won’t break records for fantasy points, but it’s his versatility when fully healthy that can win you matchups.

In 2014, Newton completed 262 passes for 3,127 yards and 18 touchdowns to his 12 interceptions. He also rushed 103 times for 539 yards and five scores.

Newton didn’t carry the football as much as you would normally expect, particularly early in the season, as he nursed injuries. Assuming he’s fully healthy, these numbers should rise.

Despite that, drafting Newton as a starter does bring plenty of risk.

Due to his aggressive style and desire to run the football often, Newton takes a lot of punishment and has a greater injury risk than other passers in the league.

With injuries affecting his numbers, Newton slumped to 17th among quarterbacks in fantasy with 248.98 points. I expect him to rise back up the rankings this season.

In a division that features the defenses of New Orleans, Tampa Bay and Atlanta, Newton should have opportunities to gain yards in the air and on the ground.

Devin Funchess gives him another big-bodied receiver in the passing game, too, to go alongside second-year Kelvin Benjamin.

Newton is a multi-talented quarterback who can offer a lot to your team, but he comes with plenty of risk.

Next: No. 8