FanDuel Price: $7,800
DraftKings Price: $6,500
Cam Newton has shown immense DFS upside in the past because of the points he adds with his legs. But following offseason shoulder surgery and a preseason in which he only attempted two passes, it doesn't look like we'll be seeing that Cam any time soon, especially after seeing his usage in Week 1,
In the opening tilt against the San Francisco 49ers, Newton completed just 14-of-25 attempts on his way to 171 yards, 2 touchdowns, and an interception. He also only added 3 yards with his legs, and the Carolina Panthers were content controlling the game on the ground with Christian McCaffrey and Jonathan Stewart.
With Carolina favored by a touchdown over the Buffalo Bills, a similar script is likely to play out in which Newton isn't forced to throw a lot, particularly if he continues to show some rust. We know what Newton can do when he's 100%, but the shoulder is something he will likely have to deal with all season. On a slate littered with strong plays at quarterback, you're taking on a lot of risk at a position you shouldn't need to.
Take a wait-and-see approach before entrusting Newton to lead your DFS lineups again.