Former Auburn and NFL star Cam Newton just landed a new gig with ESPN that could be tough to handle

When you think of modern sports talk television, First Take is perhaps the first thing that typically comes to mind. First airing back in 2007, it has caused heavy debate in the wonderful world of sports, sometimes bringing controversy, eye rolls, and heated debate to the table. When Stephen A. Smith joined the cast back in 2012, the show soared to new heights along with co-host Skip Bayless , and an array of other guest analysts.

We have seen the show take on several forms over the years, especially when Bayless left in 2016. Over the years, we have seen analysts like Max Kellerman, Shannon Sharpe, Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, Kendrick Perkins, Ryan Clark, Damien Woody, Sam Acho, Marcus Spears, and Dan Orlovsky have their moments of contention alongside Smith.

First Take is now set for another new adaption of the show with it being announced that ESPN is hiring former Auburn and NFL star quarterback Cam Newton to be a regular guest on the show. It was first reported by The Hollywood Reporter , and that news has taken the sports world by storm this morning.

Newton, who was a former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL MVP with the Carolina Panthers, has gone to the media side since ending his playing career. He has frequently put his opinions out in podcast and Youtube form over the last couple of years, and has been a guest on several prominent shows such as The Pivot Podcast during that time.

During his playing career, attention and controversy has always seemed to follow Newton. He is a big personality and welcomes the spotlight. That has continued to follow him even during his post playing career, including a recent awkward engagement between Newton and Colorado stars Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders. Combining Newton with Smith on First Take is sure to cause some fireworks.

Smith has grown a reputation for stirring the pot, and has been a part of some heavy sports debates during his career. That constant criticism and debate can’t be easy to work with. It takes a very specific type of person to be able to be a part of that loud and contentious format, and it appears that Newton is ready for the challenge.