Panthers legend Cam Newton is back... on TV. What to know about his new role at ESPN

Cam Newton is back... on TV.

After spending the past two seasons out of the NFL, the Carolina Panthers legend has reached a deal with ESPN to join their flagship morning show, “First Take.”

Carolina fans won’t need to wait long to see Newton, 35, back on their screens, either. Newton is set to make his debut on Friday as part of the program’s HBCU roadshow at Tennessee State University.

Newton has been developing his TV commentary skills on his own podcast, “ 4thand1Show with Cam Newton ,” which is posted to his social media accounts.

“I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN,” Newton said in a news release. “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 will join a long list of commentators for “First Take,” as he joins regular hosts Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim.

It is unclear if Newton’s new deal will impact his current self-produced show.

Newton, the 2015 NFL MVP, last played for the Panthers in 2021. It was his second stint with the team after a one-year stay with the New England Patriots in 2020.

In 11 NFL seasons, Newton produced 32,382 passing yards, 194 passing touchdowns, 5,628 rushing yards and 75 rushing touchdowns.