Cam Newton doubled down on his criticism of Jayden Daniels, and he’s not backing down from anyone who has a problem with it. The former NFL MVP fired back at ESPN’s Ryan Clark after the longtime analyst questioned whether Newton crossed the line by calling Daniels a potential “one-hit wonder.”
With training camp around the corner, Newton made it clear: nobody gets a free pass from his commentary, regardless of their reputation or character.
Why Won’t Cam Newton Back Down From His Jayden Daniels Take?
Newton responded in a recent 4th and 1 video after Clark said the former Panthers quarterback may have gone too far in questioning whether Daniels would be a “one-hit wonder.”
Daniels had a standout rookie year, leading the Washington Commanders to the NFC Championship Game and entering the 2025 season surrounded by optimism and scrutiny from Newton.
“I respect Ryan Clark, but Ryan Clark’s safe. I’m not,” Newton said in a monologue addressing the criticism. “Nobody is above critique. If you’re playing the game of football or any sport, just because he’s a model citizen, we can’t critique his game? I find that mighty strange.”
Cam Claps Back at Ryan Clark Over Jayden Daniels Comments
Hot Take of the Week out now!
📺: https://t.co/bobzSgopEl pic.twitter.com/CVDuL4zRNd
— 4th&1 with Cam Newton (@4thand1show) July 16, 2025
Newton emphasized that he intends to be honest but is not agreeable. “I love LeBron James, but that doesn’t mean I’m not gonna talk about Bron,” he said. “I still have to do my due diligence as a member of the media to voice my opinion.”
Clark, a longtime NFL safety and current ESPN analyst, had criticized Newton’s tone earlier, suggesting that young Black quarterbacks deserve more support, especially early in their careers.
Newton’s commentary comes amid high expectations for Daniels, who is entering his second season under offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and a revamped roster that includes the addition of wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
How Does Jayden Daniels’ Situation Differ From RGIII’s?
Unlike Robert Griffin III, whom Newton referenced, Daniels heads into his second season healthy, and the front office is committed to building a team around him.
Griffin was a former Heisman winner and Washington quarterback who was hailed as a game-changing talent in his rookie year. However, a series of knee injuries and a controversial decision by Washington’s coaching staff to allow him to play through his injuries derailed his career.
What Message Is Cam Newton Sending About His Media Approach?
Newton doubles down on his take based on his desire to keep things real.
“Same Cam Jayden Daniels gets is the same Cam that RGIII gets,” Newton said. “That’s the same Cam that Shannon Sharpe gets. Stephen A. gets. Molly [Qerim] gets. I don’t switch up.”
For Newton, the message is clear: he’s not here to play it safe.
“I ain’t swinging to get on first base, I’m swinging for the fences,” Newton said. “Yeah, you may strike out … but guess what? I swung.”
Daniels and the Commanders report to training camp on July 22.
