Mike Shula has said that Cam Newton must remain balanced as he prepares for his third year with the Carolina Panthers.

The quarterback was named offensive rookie of the year in 2011, before leading the Panthers to a second-placed finish in the NFC South in 2012.

The team's offensive coordinator told The Associated Press: "Probably the biggest thing for him is maintaining that balance. Because everything around you during the football season is going to be up and down.

"The more you can continue to stay on an even plane and lead the group of guys around you, the more effective you are going to be as a quarterback."

Newton completed 3,869 passing yards in the 2012 NFL season.