Former NFL MVP Cam Newton is among the high-profile personalities departing ESPN after the network announced sweeping layoffs tied to a major organizational restructuring.
The cuts, announced Tuesday, affect both on-air talent and behind-the-scenes employees. ESPN executives said the move follows the company’s integration of NFL Network and other league-owned digital assets into its operations. The restructuring marks ESPN’s first significant round of layoffs in three years.
Newton joined ESPN in 2024 and quickly became a regular contributor on First Take. His appearances expanded after the departure of Shannon Sharpe. The former Carolina Panthers quarterback later signed a multi-year contract extension in 2025, signaling the network’s confidence in his growing broadcasting role.
His exit comes less than a year after ESPN publicly celebrated its renewed partnership with the former league MVP. At the time, executives praised Newton’s ability to connect with audiences through his outspoken style and football perspective.
Layoffs Extend Across ESPN
Newton was not the only recognizable name affected.
Longtime baseball broadcaster Karl Ravech, NFL insider Tom Pelissero, NFL analyst Ryan Clark, Charles Davis, Bart Scott, Stephania Bell and several others were also impacted by the reductions. Many production employees also lost their jobs as part of the restructuring.
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro addressed employees in a company memo explaining the decision.
“Over the past several months, we’ve made significant progress integrating the NFL assets that we acquired into ESPN,” Pitaro wrote.
“Throughout this process, we have taken the time to carefully evaluate our collective teams, resources and organizational structure to best position us for the future.”
He continued, “These decisions are incredibly difficult because they affect colleagues and friends whose contributions have helped shape ESPN. We are committed to treating everyone impacted with respect and supporting them through this transition.”
According to the company, most of the layoffs stem from ESPN’s acquisition of NFL Network, NFL Fantasy and distribution rights to NFL RedZone. That transaction also gave the NFL a 10% equity stake in ESPN. The deal received regulatory approval earlier this year before integration officially began in April.
Newton Built a Strong Media Presence
Although Newton’s ESPN tenure has ended, his media career extends beyond the network.
The former quarterback has built a sizable digital audience through his independently produced podcast and video content. His interviews and commentary regularly generate headlines across the sports landscape.
Newton also remained one of ESPN’s most recognizable debate contributors. His passionate opinions frequently sparked conversation among fans, particularly during discussions surrounding NFL quarterbacks and championship contenders.
Neither Newton nor ESPN immediately released a personal statement regarding his departure following news of the layoffs.
The move underscores broader changes occurring throughout sports media. Traditional television companies continue adapting to shifting audience habits, streaming priorities and corporate consolidation.
Disney, ESPN’s parent company, has implemented additional cost-cutting measures across several divisions in recent months. Company leaders have emphasized creating a more streamlined organization while investing in future digital initiatives.
While Newton’s future broadcasting destination remains unknown, his departure closes a brief but highly visible chapter at ESPN. His personality and willingness to challenge conventional opinions made him a memorable presence on First Take. Given his established independent platform and football credentials, industry observers expect Newton to remain a prominent voice in sports media despite his exit from the network.