Former NFL MVP’s on-air remarks about the late running back ignite fierce debate among fans and viewers
Former Carolina Panthers quarterback and NFL MVP Cam Newton found himself at the center of a social media firestorm following remarks he made during his appearance on ESPN’s “First Take” on Monday morning. The controversy erupted after Newton referenced the late O.J. Simpson while analyzing the Buffalo Bills’ performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, prompting widespread criticism from viewers and football fans across the country.
Newton’s comment came during a discussion about the game’s rushing statistics. The former quarterback noted that Simpson was the last player to achieve similar rushing yards against Pittsburgh, then added a phrase about Simpson’s soul along with the word “respectfully.” This immediately drew sharp reactions from the audience.
Newton’s New Role at ESPN
The former quarterback officially joined ESPN’s “First Take” in 2025 as a regular contributor. Newton appears as a weekly guest on Stephen A. Smith’s morning program, which airs daily from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Eastern Time. His role involves discussing the previous week’s games, analyzing league narratives and providing commentary on current NFL storylines. However, his Monday appearance has put him under intense scrutiny.
Simpson’s Controversial Legacy
Simpson, who died in April 2024, remains one of professional football’s most polarizing figures. The former running back was infamously accused of murdering his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman. Simpson was found not guilty in the criminal trial, though many people continued to believe in his guilt despite the verdict.
During his playing career from 1969 to 1979, Simpson established himself as one of the league’s elite running backs. He earned the MVP award in 1973 and received five All-Pro selections during his decade-long career. His on-field achievements, however, became permanently overshadowed by the murder accusations and subsequent trial.
Social Media Eruption
The backlash was swift and unforgiving across social media platforms. NFL fans took particular issue with Newton’s respectful tone when mentioning a murder suspect. One viewer questioned where Simpson’s soul might actually be resting, suggesting a warmer destination. Another fan sarcastically commented on athlete salaries in response to Newton’s remarks.
Critics expressed disbelief at the combination of Newton’s reverent phrasing alongside the acknowledgment of Simpson’s alleged crimes. One commenter highlighted the contradiction of showing respect for someone accused of murdering the mother of his children and another victim while praising his football abilities.
Criticism of Newton’s Commentary
Additional critics targeted Newton’s overall approach to sports commentary. One viewer connected Newton’s clothing choices to what they perceived as questionable takes on the show. Another simply noted that the phrase about Simpson’s soul was shocking, using laughter to emphasize their surprise at hearing such words on a national sports broadcast.
The incident has raised questions about how sports media personalities should reference controversial figures when discussing historical statistics and performances. Simpson’s records remain part of NFL history, making him relevant to certain statistical comparisons. Yet his criminal trial and the serious accusations against him complicate any discussion that involves his name.
The Context of the Steelers-Bills Game
Newton’s comments were part of his analysis of Sunday’s Steelers versus Bills matchup. The discussion centered on Buffalo’s rushing performance and historical comparisons to previous games against Pittsburgh. Newton’s reference to Simpson was meant to provide historical context for the statistical achievement, though the delivery and tone became the focal point rather than the football analysis itself.
The Bills’ ground game had evidently impressed Newton enough to warrant a historical comparison. His choice to reach back to Simpson’s era demonstrated the magnitude of the performance, but the reverential language used when mentioning the controversial figure overshadowed the analytical point he was attempting to make.
Questions About Broadcasting Standards
The controversy has sparked broader conversations about editorial oversight on debate-focused sports programs. Shows like “First Take” thrive on provocative statements and strong opinions, but this incident highlights the potential pitfalls when commentary crosses into sensitive territory. The balance between generating compelling television and maintaining appropriate standards remains a constant challenge for networks and personalities alike.
Newton‘s early tenure at ESPN now includes this controversial moment, which may influence how he approaches future commentary. The former athlete, known for his bold personality during his playing career, must now navigate the different demands and sensitivities required in broadcasting, where every word choice matters and national scrutiny is immediate.
As the debate continues online, neither Newton nor ESPN has addressed the controversy publicly. The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly sports commentary can become problematic when historical references involve figures as complicated and controversial as Simpson.
Source: The Spun
