Ray Edwards, Falcons Defensive End -- The Right to Bare Chest

Cam Newton should consider himself lucky ... 'cause the Carolina Panthers QB was wrapped up by a REAL-LIFE MODEL last weekend ... when Atlanta Falcons stud Ray Edwards sacked his ass.

Edwards has become the latest pro athlete to strip down for a skin-baring photo session ... all for an upcoming, fully waxed 2012 calendar.

Sources tell TMZ, Edwards hasn't completely decided if he wants to pursue a modeling career -- so he took these photos to "test the waters."

If the calendar sells, Edwards says he'll think more seriously about a career change -- although it's not like he needs the money ... dude just signed a 6-year $30 million contract.