Auburn football legend becomes a villain of the sports world joining Stephen A. Smith on 'First Take'

Cam Newton is joining Stephen A. Smith as a part-time guest on ESPN's "First Take," per The Hollywood Reporter. In many ways, this is not surprising considering the former Heisman winner with Auburn football vowed to make podcasting his main career after unofficially retiring in February.

It will be unpopular, though. Very unpopular.

ESPN's latest round of layoffs included popular NBA reporter and podcaster Zach Lowe. Before him, sideline reporter Sam Ponder was let go. Many sports fans believe ESPN has been getting rid of legitimately talented analysts for hot-take merchants. Adding Newton, who's made it a habit to repeatedly say the most unpopular thing possible, is only going to further that sentiment.

If it makes ESPN money, the "World Wide Leader" won't give a damn, though. Business is business.

Cam Newton hypes up his debut appearance on October 11 edition of ESPN 'First Take'

Newton said the right things about his upcoming appearance on ESPN's "First Take" on October 11 at Tennessee State University.

“I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN,” Newton added. “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.”

Let's hope Newton's intensity isn't misplaced in the kind of scorching hot takes that have put him in boiling water this year. Few have the kind of insight into the world of football Newton has, but talking about wanting more kids with no wife is not how he's going to earn anyone's respect in the sports media world.