Former NFL MVP Cam Newton Joins ESPN’s First Take With Stephen A. Smith — Will Debut Friday

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Former MVP quarterback Cam Newton will join ESPN’s First Take as part of the show’s regular rotation of analysts, the company announced Thursday.

Newton has been busy in the world of media even before his retirement after the 2021 season. In June 2021, he debuted his show Funky Fridays on his YouTube channel. Last September, he launched the podcast 4th & 1. An independent voice in the media, Newton now boasts more than 1.5 million subscribers on his YouTube channel.

The 35-year-old is set to make his debut Friday.

“I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN,” Newton said in the company’s 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.”

ESPN has now reached agreements with multiple former athletes who’ve excelled on their own in the media space. That list includes Shannon Sharpe — who appears on First Take in addition to hosting two successful podcasts — and Pat McAfee, who signed a licensing deal to broadcast his show on both ESPN and his YouTube channel.

“Cam Newton’s addition to First Take brings an electrifying presence, enhancing our roster of top-tier personalities,” said Executive Vice President David Roberts said. “His dynamic charisma, combined with the high-profile debates alongside Stephen A. Smith, will create compelling, must-watch television for fans.”