Cam Newton Scores Multi-Year ESPN Deal, Steps Into Shannon Sharpe’s ‘First Take’ Role

Cam Newton, the 2015 NFL MVP who thrilled Carolina Panthers fans for a decade, is officially making football media his next long-term play. ESPN announced this week that Newton has signed a multi-year contract that will expand his presence on the network’s flagship debate show “First Take.” He will appear alongside Stephen A. Smith several times per week and headline special on-site episodes during the show’s fall HBCU Tour, starting at Norfolk State on August 28. The agreement follows Shannon Sharpe’s exit from “First Take,” positioning Newton as a new foil for Smith while keeping the program’s mix of star power and gridiron credibility intact. A natural progression from podcast to prime time Since exiting the Panthers in 2021, Newton, 36, has grown a digital audience through his “4th & 1” podcast and frequent viral quarterback breakdowns. His guest appearances on “First Take” drew ratings spikes during the 2024 NFL playoffs, convincing executives that the former Pro Bowler could thrive full-time in front of the camera. The new deal reportedly includes weekly Monday segments, live Super Bowl week specials, and creative leeway for Newton to bring his unique fashion and on-field insight to studio sets. Why ESPN needs Cam Newton now With undisputed ratings leader “First Take” facing fresh competition from FS1’s revamped morning block, ESPN is doubling down on personalities who resonate with younger NFL fans. Newton brings: • Instant recognition as the last quarterback to win both the Heisman Trophy and NFL MVP. • Deep ties to the Southeast—a key college football region and a core part of ESPN’s audience. • Authentic player perspective on dual-threat QBs such as Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts and rising college sensation Shedeur Sanders. The move also strengthens ESPN’s HBCU coverage; Newton starred at Auburn but has long invested in youth programs at Atlanta’s HBCUs and often trains at their facilities in the offseason. What Cam Newton gains Beyond a reported seven-figure annual paycheck, the arrangement offers Newton a national platform during the heart of football season while allowing him to keep podcast ownership and pursue potential NFL comeback opportunities. Sources close to the former Panther say he still trains daily and “won’t rule out” a late-season roster call if injuries strike contender teams. Panthers legacy and fan reaction Charlotte remains a core part of Newton’s story, and Panthers supporters quickly celebrated the TV deal on social media. Many remember his 2015 15-1 run and signature “Dab” celebrations; others hope his media rise can mirror that of fellow Panthers icon Steve Smith Sr., who parlayed candid commentary into a successful analyst career. What to watch next • Newton’s first regular slot is scheduled for Monday, September 2, the day after Week 1 of the college football season. • Expect fiery takes on Bryce Young’s sophomore campaign in Carolina and the evolving market for running quarterbacks. • Fashion watchers will zero in on Newton’s post-show outfits, already rumored to include a custom HBCU Tour fedora collection. Bottom line Cam Newton’s jump from huddle to hot-take desk solidifies ESPN’s quest for fresh star power and allows one of football’s most charismatic figures to rewrite his post-playing narrative in real time. With the NFL season, HBCU showcase games and the College Football Playoff all on the horizon, Newton’s timing—and ESPN’s bet—couldn’t be better.