BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton will be named Alabama Sports Writers Association’s professional athlete of the year.

The former Auburn quarterback will receive the honor at the ASWA awards banquet Sunday night in Birmingham. Newton beat out such star athletes as American League MVP Josh Donaldson, Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones and WBC heavyweight boxing champion Deontay Wilder, who won last year.

Newton was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player and offensive player of the year by The Associated Press. He set team records with 500 points scored and 59 touchdowns.

Newton became the first player in league history with at least 30 passing touchdowns and 10 rushing touchdowns in a single season. His 45 total touchdowns were more than any other player in the NFL last season.