In a season full of wins, records and celebrations for Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, his biggest gift has come off the field.

Newton on Wednesday night confirmed he and his girlfriend Kia are now proud parents:

When Newton left Carolina's Christmas Eve practice early for a "family" matter, rumors started to run rampant that the 26 year old had become a father.

Newton appeared to confirm the news Sunday with a touchdown celebration that included rocking the ball like a baby. But losing to the Falcons apparently made him unwilling to share.

When a reporter asked if there was a significance behind the celebration, Newton answered: "No, sir. I'm going to leave it at that."

Rumors that Newton's girlfriend was expecting began popping up this summer, but he and his camp kept a tight lid on it all. That they were able to do that for nine months is one of PR's greatest wins over the Internet.