Auburn Retires Cam Newton’s No. 2 Jersey as Panthers Legend Confirms Retirement Stance
AUBURN, Ala. – January 10, 2026 – Auburn University retired Cam Newton’s No. 2 jersey on October 11, 2025, during a ceremony at Jordan-Hare Stadium against Georgia. The honor recognized Newton’s iconic 2010 season, where he led the Tigers to a perfect 14-0 record, an SEC Championship, and the BCS National Championship. Newton, who won the Heisman Trophy that year, became the fourth player in Auburn history to have his number retired, joining Pat Sullivan (No. 7), Bo Jackson (No. 34), and Terry Beasley (No. 88).
Newton’s Historic 2010 College Season
Newton’s lone season at Auburn remains one of the most prolific in college football history. He threw for 2,854 yards and 30 touchdowns while rushing for 1,473 yards and 20 touchdowns, also scoring a receiving touchdown. Newton became the first SEC player to surpass 2,000 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards in a single season. His dominance earned him consensus All-American honors and multiple awards, including the Maxwell Award, Walter Camp Award, Manning Award, and Davey O’Brien Award.
NFL Career Highlights
Drafted first overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2011, Newton spent most of his 11-year NFL career with the team. He won NFL MVP in 2015, leading the Panthers to a 15-1 record and Super Bowl 50 appearance. Newton holds Panthers franchise records for passing yards (32,382), passing touchdowns (194), and rushing touchdowns (75). He also played for the New England Patriots in 2020, rushing for 12 touchdowns. Injuries plagued his later years, including shoulder and foot surgeries, leading to his release by the Panthers in 2020 and again in 2021.
Key Stats and Achievements
| Category | College (2010) | NFL Career |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 2,854 | 32,382 |
| Passing Touchdowns | 30 | 194 |
| Rushing Yards | 1,473 | 5,628 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 20 | 75 |
| Pro Bowls | N/A | 3 |
| Major Awards | Heisman Trophy, National Championship | NFL MVP (2015), Offensive Rookie of the Year (2011) |
Recent Retirement Confirmation
In December 2025, Newton addressed his NFL future, stating he had not retired but did not expect another contract. He expressed frustration with his personality being seen as “too big” and noted he would only return as a starter or to compete for the role. Newton last played in 2021 with the Panthers, appearing in eight games and rushing for 230 yards and five touchdowns. He has since focused on philanthropy, including his “Santa Cam’s Surprise Sleigh” charity drives in Charlotte.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Cam Newton officially retired from the NFL?
As of January 10, 2026, Cam Newton has not officially announced his retirement but has not played since 2021 and does not anticipate returning.
What is Cam Newton’s legacy at Auburn?
Newton’s No. 2 jersey retirement honors his transformative 2010 season, where he led Auburn to its most recent national title and set numerous school records.
What are Cam Newton’s NFL records?
Newton ranks second in NFL history for quarterback rushing touchdowns (75) and third for rushing yards (5,628).