Former Carolina Panthers All-Pro quarterback Cam Newton is expanding his media duties at ESPN. The 36-year-old signed a multi-year deal with the network Wednesday, which will see him make more appearances on “First Take,” ESPN announced Wednesday.
Newton isn’t necessarily replacing Shannon Sharpe as a regular on the program. Instead, ESPN teased Newton would “expand his role” on the show. Last season, Newton appeared on “First Take” on Fridays during the NFL season.
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He’s already breaking from that schedule in his return to the program. Newton is set to appear on “First Take” on Thursday, when the show is live at Norfolk State University as part of its HBCU tour.
“First Take” will continue to be hosted by Molly Qerim. Stephen A. Smith and Chris “Mad Dog” Russo will continue to make regular appearances on the program.
Sharpe previously served as a regular contributor on the show, but parted ways with ESPN in June 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, with some reports saying ESPN cut ties with Sharpe. The Hall of Fame tight end claimed he was “electing to step aside” from the company temporarily.
Since retiring from the NFL after the 2021 season, Newton emerged as a popular media personality. He’s mostly known for his 4th&1 podcast, which is released weekly.
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Prior to that, Newton starred in the NFL. After being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Newton took home the Rookie of the Year award in his first season. He made three Pro Bowls over his first five years in the NFL, also taking home an MVP award and making an All-Pro team in his fifth season.
Newton continued to play at a high level through the 2018 NFL season before a shoulder injury disrupted his prime. Newton spent the 2020 NFL season with the New England Patriots before returning to Carolina for one more year in 2021.