SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman said quarterback Cam Newton is a player he can build the franchise around.

But Gettleman is quick to add "but now it's time to win."

In Gettleman's view, Newton has had the best first two seasons of any QB in NFL history, but said that gets lost on people "because of the elephant in the room, which is his 13-19 record" as a starter.

In two seasons Newton has thrown for 7,920 yards and 40 touchdowns with 29 interceptions. He's also run for 1,447 yards and 22 TDs.

He was named AP Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2011.