The Collegiate Career and Rise of Greg Newsome II

Gregory Newsome II, an American professional football cornerback, has garnered attention for his skills and performance on the field. This article delves into his college stats, early career, and transition to the NFL.

Early Life and High School

Before making waves in college football, Newsome honed his skills at Glenbard North High School in Carol Stream, Illinois. He later transferred to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for his senior year, further refining his abilities and preparing for the challenges of collegiate and professional football.

College Career at Northwestern

Newsome committed to Northwestern University, where he played college football. During his time there, he established himself as a notable player. He showcased his talent as a multi-year producer in a Power Five conference.

Draft Projections and Rankings

Leading up to the 2021 NFL Draft, Newsome was highly regarded by analysts and scouts. Pro Football Focus ranked Newsome as the third-best cornerback prospect (20th overall) in the draft. Dane Brugler of The Athletic and Mark Schofield of Touchdown Wire both ranked Newsome as the fourth-best cornerback prospect. NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah had Newsome ranked fourth among all cornerbacks (28th overall). These evaluations highlighted his potential and solidified his status as a top prospect.

NFL Draft and Initial Years with the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns selected Newsome in the first round (26th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. Newsome's pick marked the first time Northwestern has had two first-round picks in the NFL draft after Rashawn Slater was taken 13th overall. The Browns were drawn to Newsome's well-rounded skill set, noting his size, length, and speed, as well as his ability to play press effectively. They also appreciated his experience in both zone and off-man coverages, making him a versatile asset to their defense.

2021 Season

On July 24, 2021, Newsome signed a four-year, $12.74 million contract with the Cleveland Browns, which was fully guaranteed and included a $6.63 million signing bonus. He was slated to be a starting cornerback, replacing Terrance Mitchell. Newsome started in his professional regular season debut on September 12, 2021, recording one solo tackle during a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. However, his season was not without its challenges, as he was inactive for two games due to a calf injury. Later, he suffered a concussion, sidelining him for three games. Despite these setbacks, he managed to record a season-high eight combined tackles against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

2022 Season

In the 2022 season, Newsome continued to be a key part of the Browns' defense. He recorded 42 combined tackles (31 solo), six pass deflections, and was credited with half a sack in 15 games. On November 13, 2022, Newsome made three combined tackles (two solo) and made his first career sack on wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. with teammate Deion Jones for a six-yard loss during a loss to the Miami Dolphins. His overall grade from Pro Football Focus improved to 69.1. However, he was again sidelined for two games after sustaining a concussion in practice. Following the season, the Browns decided to fire defensive coordinator Joe Woods.

2023 Season

Newsome faced more injury challenges in the 2023 season, missing games due to an elbow injury and a groin injury. Despite these setbacks, he had several impactful performances. On November 12, 2023, Newsome returned an interception for his first career touchdown in a game against the Baltimore Ravens, contributing to a Browns victory. He also recorded a season-high seven combined tackles against the Denver Broncos. In a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, he had five solo tackles and a season-high four pass deflections, along with another interception. The Browns finished the season with an 11-6 record, clinching a Wildcard berth.

2024 Season

In Week 6, he collected a season-high five solo tackles during a loss at the Philadelphia Eagles. On December 2, 2024, Newsome recorded one solo tackle, made a season-high two pass deflections, and had his only interception of the season on a pass thrown by Bo Nix to wide receiver Troy Franklin during a loss at the Denver Broncos. In Week 14, Newsome recorded two solo tackles before exiting in the fourth quarter of a loss at the Pittsburgh Steelers after injuring his hamstring.

Trade to the Jacksonville Jaguars

On October 9, 2025, Newsome was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for CB Tyson Campbell.

Read also: The Enduring Legacy of Greg Lee

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