ESPN signs former NFL MVP Cam Newton, to appear as regular on 'First Take'

ESPN hired former NFL quarterback Cam Newton as a regular contributor to primarily appear on the morning show "First Take," the network announced Thursday.

Newton will make his debut Friday during a taping at Tennessee State University as part of the show's HBCU roadshow.

“I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN,” Newton said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to share my perspective and go toe-to-toe with the best in the business. Fans can expect the same intensity I brought to the field, along with real talk, bold takes, and good fun.”

Newton joins hosts Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim, with other commentators Shannon Sharpe and Chris “Mad Dog” Russo.

Newton played 11 seasons with the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots, last appearing with the Panthers during the 2021 season.

Newton won the Heisman Trophy at Auburn and also led the Tigers to the national championship in 2010 before the Panthers selected him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft. He won the Rookie of the Year award after throwing for 4,051 yards and 21 touchdowns.

He led the Panthers to the Super Bowl in 2015 in a season where he was named the league's Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year.

Newton, a three-time Pro Bowler, was 75−68−1 as a starting NFL quarterback, throwing for 32,382 yards with 194 touchdowns and 123 interceptions and also rushing for 5,628 yards and 75 scores on the ground.