Former NFL star Cam Newton sparked controversy with his comments on ESPN’s “First Take” on Monday morning.
The former NFL MVP quarterback for the Carolina Panthers officially joined ESPN’s “First Take” in 2025. Newton has been a weekly guest for Stephen A. Smith’s show, which airs daily from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. E.T. The former NFL quarterback discusses the past week’s games, league narratives and more. But Newton is under fire for what he said about O.J. Simpson on Monday.
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Newton brought up the late O.J. Simpson while discussing the Steelers vs. Bills game on Sunday.
Cam Newton on ESPN.ESPN.
“The last person to put up this much yards, God rest his soul, was O. J. Simpson, respectfully,” Newton said while discussing the Steelers vs. Bills game.
Simpson, who died in April of 2024, was infamously accused of murdering his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman. Simpson was found not guilty in the infamous trial, though many continued to believe his guilt.
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NFL fans have problem with Simpson’s comment
NFL fans are taking issue with Newton saying “God rest his soul” in relation to a murder suspect.
“OJ soul ain’t resting. Probably a bit warmer where he’s at,” one fan wrote.
“Nobody will ever convince me that we don’t pay athletes enough money,” one fan added.
“God rest his soul… for allegedly murdering the mother of his children and the waiter at the restaurant, but he knew how to pound the rock. Is this guy serious?!?! Respectfully,” one fan added.
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“When you dress like a clown, I guess we should expect clown takes,” one fan added.
“God rest his soul is WILD 🤣,” one fan added.
Simpson, who played in the league from 1969-79, is considered one of the best running backs ever. He was the MVP of the league in 1973 and a five-time All-Pro.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 1, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
