“This isn’t 2015” - Shannon Sharpe issues reality check for Cam Newton
Once upon a time, Cam Newton was one of the most popular quarterbacks in the NFL. He was stylish on the gridiron and off of it, had endorsement deals, and is credited by many for inventing or at least popularizing the "dab" celebration. However, it has been a couple of years since the league last got a big taste of the quarterback.
Despite the passage of time, the former quarterback is looking to make another go of it. According to ESPN, the former Carolina Panthers quarterback will make an appearance at Auburn's Pro Day to work out in an effort to entice teams.
Will Cam Newton start a game in 2023?
However, while some fans are hopeful of getting a dose of the quarterback in 2023, analysts are scoffing at the attempt.
.@ShannonSharpe on Cam Newton announcing he’ll throw at Auburn’s Pro Day:
“Cam, you haven’t been good in a very long time. It’s 2023, this isn’t 2015 anymore. I hate to break it to you, but you’re now one of those ‘randoms.’” https://t.co/AaE4YriqoY
Speaking on Undisputed, NFL analyst Shannon Sharpe blamed Newton's surrounding people for encouraging him to show up to the event. Here's how he put it:
"I'm gonna keep it 100 with you and everybody is watching. Cam, you haven't been good for a very long time. I'll tell you something they're probably not telling you in your circle. That's how the league looks at you. Now, you are one of those randoms."
Free agent QB Cam Newton announced that he will be throwing at Auburn's Pro Day tomorrow.
"Ain't 32 (expletive) better than me"
https://t.co/sid61dGaJi
Sharpe continued, driving the knife of truth even deeper:
"You're not a guy [that's] going to alter the trajectory of [a] franchise. That's not how they perceive you. That's not how they looking at you... This is not 2015 when you led a team to the Super Bowl... Cam was outstanding. But be honest with yourself. Cam isn't that same player anymore and he hasn't been that player for a very, very, very long time."
Cam Newton inches towards 10 year anniversary of Super Bowl appearance
While the former quarterback hopes to win over a team alongside a slew of Auburn rookies, time ticks closer to ten years since he peaked in the league. Newton's Super Bowl appearance came on February 7th, 2016.
If one goes by seasons, the former quarterback will reach the 10-season anniversary in 2025. If one goes by calendar dates, he will reach the anniversary in 2026. Either way, the anniversary is within arm's reach. Since losing the Super Bowl, he made the playoffs just one more time.
Cam Newton's time with the team wrapped after 2019 and after a brief stint in New England, he got one last shot with the Panthers in 2021, when he went 0-5 after joining the team in the middle of the season.
If any of the above quotes are used, please credit Undisputed and H/T Sportskeeda.