Former Patriots Quarterback Cam Newton Lands Big New Job

Cam Newton was one of the most entertaining NFL players in his prime in addition to being one of the league’s best.

That big personality paved the way for a successful post-playing career, which reached a new height Thursday morning.

ESPN announced Newton as its newest on-air personality, with the 2015 MVP working mostly as a commentator on the popular “First Take” program. The former Carolina Panther and New England Patriot will have his first debate show with Stephen A. Smith on Friday when “First Take” visits Tennessee State University as part of its HBCU roadshow initiative.

Newton made an immediate pivot to media after his second stint with the Panthers wrapped up at the conclusion of the 2021 season. He hosts a weekly podcast, “4th & 1 with Cam Newton,” in addition to other regular on-air gigs.

“First Take” has cycled a number of regular guests to debate Smith ever since Max Kellerman left the show in 2021. Prior to Newton, the program made another noteworthy hire in the form of Shannon Sharpe, who latched on ESPN less than three months after leaving FS1’s “Undisputed.”