( CNN ) -- The Carolina Panthers selected Auburn University quarterback Cam Newton as the first pick of the 2011 NFL draft on Thursday . The Panthers were given first pick as a result of being the worst-performing franchise last season and had been widely tipped to opt for the 21-year-old . Denver Broncos were allotted second choice in the draft , and the two-time Super Bowl winners chose Texas A & M linebacker Von Miller . The draft took place amid a dispute between NFL teams and players over pay rates . NFL owners appeal ruling , allow some operations . Talks between the players and the teams over contracts broke down last month , resulting in the players union disbanding . The dispute has brought the start of the NFL season , set to get under way on September 8 , into jeopardy . Newton helped Auburn to their first undefeated season last year and their first National Championship in 53 years . The Georgia native also won the Heisman Trophy , an award given to the best player in collegiate football . `` It was like a shock went through my body , '' Newton said on the official NFL web site . `` I 'm just blessed . ... I ca n't wait to get to my new hometown of Charlotte . '' `` He has special qualities , '' Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said . `` We 've had a strong feeling for some time that he was the person who we felt could come in and have the most impact on our football team . '' Marcell Dareus , a defensive linesman from the University of Alabama , was selected third by the Buffalo Bills . Wide receiver A.J . Green was picked fourth and will play for the Cincinnati Bengals , with Patrick Peterson , a corner back from Louisiana State University , selected by the Arizona Cardinals .
Quarterback Cam Newton was the first pick in Thursday 's NFL draft . The 21-year-old will join the Carolina Panthers , last year 's worst-performing team . Linebacker Von Miller was picked second and will play for Denver Broncos .