Cam Newton knows what it’s like to be a young, talented quarterback under the spotlight, and he’s not holding back when it comes to Shedeur Sanders’ recent off-field decisions.
Newton, a former NFL MVP, used his platform on the latest episode of “4th&1 with Cam Newton” to send a direct, passionate message to the Cleveland Browns’ rookie quarterback, who was recently cited for two speeding violations in the span of just over a week.
Cam Newton Warns Shedeur Sanders: ‘You Can’t Play Your Way Out of That’
Newton, who’s been open about his own past mistakes, didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts.
“Driving a hundred? I’ve done that, bro. You ain’t got to do that,” Newton said. “And even though I’m using Shedeur’s name, I’m speaking to the masses. Going 101? That’s extremely dangerous.”
He continued with a sobering reminder about the risks involved. “Just because you think you’re the man, or ma’am, makes no difference, when that vehicle swerves out of the way or loses control while swerving, it’s over with for you,” Newton said. “And you can’t pay your way when you’re trying to negotiate with the Grim Reaper.”
Newton’s words weren’t just criticism; they were a plea. A plea for Sanders and other young athletes to understand the weight of their decisions, especially when lives are at stake.
Sanders’ Speeding Incidents Raise Concerns
Sanders, 23, was cited twice in June, once for driving 91 mph in a 65-mph zone, and again just days later for going 101 mph in a 60-mph zone. The second incident occurred during Browns’ rookie orientation, adding to the level of concern.
While the Browns have addressed the matter internally, and Sanders is expected to appear in court on July 3, the back-to-back violations have sparked a broader conversation about responsibility and maturity in the NFL.
Newton Speaks from Experience After His Own Wake-Up Call
Newton’s message comes from a place of personal growth. Earlier this year, he was involved in a serious car accident that forced him to reevaluate his own habits behind the wheel.
“Every time I pull up to my driveway, I see a Rolls Royce, I see a Ferrari, I see a Bentley, I see a Maybach,” Newton said. “I have everything. But right now, I don’t value those things. I value being able to say that I’m putting my children in position to never have to depend on football the way I needed to depend on football.”
Cam’s warning to Shedeur Sanders after second Speeding Ticket
New Hot Take of the Week out now!
📺: https://t.co/NpbMhRNYb5 pic.twitter.com/0zbuxQ7H2x
— 4th&1 with Cam Newton (@4thand1show) June 25, 2025
It’s clear that Newton isn’t just talking to Sanders. He’s talking to every young NFL player who might think they’re invincible.
A Teachable Moment for Sanders and the NFL
Sanders has shown flashes of promise on the field and has handled the media spotlight with confidence. But Newton’s message is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough. Character and decision-making capabilities matter just as much.
Whether Sanders takes Newton’s message to heart remains to be seen. But if a former NFL MVP is speaking about something from experience, then it’s usually worth listening.
For Sanders, this could be a moment that shapes not just his rookie season but his entire NFL career.