Expect to see more of Cam Newton on ESPN.
The former NFL MVP has signed a muliti-year deal with the network who will expand his role on First Take, ESPN’s signature morning debate show. OnThursday (August 28), Newton made his return during a live show at Norfolk State University as part of the First Take HBCU tour.
In a statement, Newton expressed his excitement to be back with the sports network.
“I am excited to be back with the First Take team and share my voice on all things sports,” Newton said. “This is an incredible opportunity for me to connect with fans and bring my passion and knowledge to a show I’ve always admired.”
“Cam Newton is a unique talent who is authentically himself, and that’s a key ingredient for success on First Take,” said David Roberts, Executive Vice President, Executive Editor, Sports News and Entertainment at ESPN. “Cam is also an ultimate team player. All of us at ESPN look forward to watching Cam create a strong connection with his teammates and our fans.”
The news of Newton’s signing comes after Shannon Sharpe, who served as a regular contributor on First Take, was let go from the company after settling a sexual-assault lawsuit. Sharpe was accused of sexual assault and battery by a former romantic partner. There were conflicting reports over the nature of his exit, Newton is no stranger to ESPN. Last season, Newton appeared on “First Take” on Fridays during the NFL season.
As a standout collegiate player, the Heisman Trophy led Auburn University to the BCS National Championship in 2010, becoming the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. He would go on to win the NFL Rookie of the Year, the NFL MVP award in 2015, leading the Carolina Panthers to Super Bowl 50 the same year. He also holds the NFL record for most career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback with 75.
