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Former NFL star Cam Newton made his much-anticipated in-studio debut on ESPN’s “First Take,” bringing his signature style to the set, complete with a wide-brimmed hat and a boldly colored jacket. Newton’s vibrant wardrobe wasn’t a surprise—after all, his fashion-forward appearances have long been a part of his personality, both on and off the field.
What no one quite expected, however, was the unusual way Newton chose to kick off his analysis on the Dallas Cowboys’ struggles—by barking.
Newton began his segment by loudly growling, “Dog!” when discussing the Cowboys, prompting co-host Stephen A. Smith to offer a lifeline, comparing Newton’s bark to something out of a Martin Lawrence routine. But Newton wasn’t about to dial it down.
“Nooooo, no, no, no, no, no, no!” Newton retorted, before launching into another extended barking session, leaving the set in an awkward silence before finally turning back to actual football analysis.
“We need some dogs on the offensive side of the ball,” Newton finally said, elaborating on his point that the Cowboys’ offense lacks grit and toughness. He shifted gears to counter recent remarks made by Cowboys legend Troy Aikman, who had criticized Dallas wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and his fellow receivers for what he called a “lazy” effort in recent games.
“I don’t know what Troy is talking about,” Newton said, dismissing Aikman’s criticism. “I can neither confirm nor deny what he is speaking is factual. Can somebody else take over a game on the Cowboys’ offense other than CeeDee Lamb?” Newton then continued his analysis, circling back to the idea that the Cowboys need more aggressive, “dog-like” players to step up.
And then, for good measure, he barked again.
Newton’s appearance drew a lot of attention—though perhaps not for the reasons ESPN might have hoped. His barking left both the studio and the audience somewhat perplexed, with many fans reacting on social media with a mix of confusion and amusement.
While Newton is no stranger to making bold moves and larger-than-life gestures, this particular display seemed to take everyone off guard, creating an awkward atmosphere before he eventually dove into football commentary.
This marked Newton’s first in-studio appearance on “First Take” since ESPN announced his addition to the show’s Friday lineup. Newton, who joined the “First Take” team on October 10, had made his first remote appearance the following day, but this was his first time live in the New York studio.
In a statement about his new role, Newton expressed enthusiasm about bringing his trademark intensity to sports commentary: “I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN. 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.”
And, apparently, some barking.
Newton’s debut left a lasting impression, but it also raised eyebrows, with some wondering if his over-the-top approach might overshadow his actual analysis. Nevertheless, Newton’s addition to “First Take” promises to keep viewers guessing about what he’ll do—or say—next.
Whether or not his barking becomes a recurring feature, one thing is clear: Cam Newton brings his own unique energy to the ESPN studio, for better or worse.
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