Former NFL MVP joins ESPN

Cam Newton has not been shy about his ambitions and goals to advance in the sports media ever since his playing days in the NFL have come to an end. And now he’s going to get his big chance.

On Thursday, it was revealed that Newton had signed a deal with ESPN to become a regular member of the cast of First Take .

Earlier this year, Newton said his goal was to become the biggest ever athlete-turned-YouTuber . Newton has quickly gained a sizable following in his short time in the media space and it’s clear that he gets it when it comes to athletes parlaying their on-field success into becoming must-see sports media personalities. While he has a ways to go to catch Shannon Sharpe in the sports podcast power list , the two will now at least be colleagues at ESPN.

The news of Newton’s arrival was broken by The Hollywood Reporter , who reports that the former NFL MVP will makes his first appearance on Friday during the show’s visit to Tennessee State University:

ESPN is adding a former NFL MVP to its signature weekday series First Take.

The sports media giant has signed Cam Newton, with the former Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots quarterback set to serve as a commentator for the company, primarily on First Take.

Newton will make his First Take debut Friday, Oct. 11 during a live taping at Tennessee State University as part of the program’s HBCU roadshow.

[…]

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

“I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN,” Newton added. “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 immediately become one of the most colorful personalities on ESPN and First Take, certainly in the wardrobe department. And it’ll be interesting where he fits into First Take ‘s star-studded rotation, if it’ll be a regular Friday appearance or if he spars with the likes of Shannon Sharpe and Chris “Mad Dog” Russo.

The show’s transition from an embrace debate style show to a roundtable featuring a number of different characters has been a runaway ratings success. Just in the last few years First Take has been able to feature stars like Sharpe, and a rejuvenated Russo, and given platforms to ESPN up and comers like Kimberley A. Martin, Elle Duncan, and others.

Now it will provide a national stage to Cam Newton. Given his willingness to be bold and brash when it comes to offering takes, expect plenty of fireworks right away.

[ The Hollywood Reporter ]

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