Carolina Panthers

Cam Newton's critics might be the ones who ultimately help him

Published Feb. 9, 2016 3:51 p.m. ET

Nunzio Ingrassia

Cam Newton's critics have been out in full force since the Panthers' stunning 24-10 loss to the Broncos in Super Bowl 50.

His performance on the field, sulking at the postgame news conference and comments he made Tuesday have only fueled the narrative that Newton hasn't fully grown up. He's more than willing to be front and center when the Panthers are rolling, but will tap out when having to answer questions after his most crushing defeat.

Colin Cowherd said all these detractors are not tearing down the reigning MVP but instead fueling him to be better next season.

"This is the best thing that ever happened to Cam Newton," Cowherd said on "The Herd" on Tuesday. "Newton is gonna be ticked off and have the best offseason of his career. Cam Newton wants to prove all his critics wrong."

That's a scary thought for the opposition. Newton was a near-unanimous pick for MVP, leading the Panthers to a 15-1 mark in the regular season.