Former MVP quarterback last played in the NFL in January 2022, during the final game of his second stint with the Carolina Panthers. Over 10 seasons with the Panthers (11 overall), Newton became one of the most celebrated players in franchise history, earning a Super Bowl appearance, three Pro Bowl nods, an All-Pro selection, and accolades such as the 2015 AP Offensive Player of the Year and the 2011 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. Despite his storied career and 269 regular-season touchdowns, the 2011 No. 1 overall pick feels a lack of recognition from the team. Carolina did not invite him as an ambassador for the recent Panthers-Giants game in Germany and reportedly declined his ideas for fan-focused collaborations.
Addressing these issues on his podcast, *”4th&1 With Cam Newton,”* he also revealed his stance on retirement. “Newsflash, I’m never going to retire,” Newton declared, suggesting the Panthers cited his unofficial retirement status as a reason for not featuring him alongside other franchise legends. While he admitted he’s likely played his last game, Newton dismissed the need for an official retirement announcement.
Cam Newton’s announcement follows years of hinting at a possible NFL return, even as his off-field ventures, including his production company Iconic Saga, have flourished. At 35, Newton has expanded his media presence significantly, now serving as a regular co-host on ESPN’s *”First Take”* alongside Stephen A. Smith.
In an August podcast episode, Newton opened up about feeling “hurt” after not being contacted by the Washington Commanders, coached by his former Panthers head coach Ron Rivera, from 2020 to 2023. Despite their history together, Rivera, who went 26-40-1 during that period and cycled through eight starting quarterbacks, never extended Newton an offer to join the team.
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