Positioning in football wins games and is grounded in leadership, strategy, and composure. In a heated debate about style of play and leadership, Cam Newton called out Shedeur Sanders for “acting like a DB” instead of a quarterback.
Sanders, the former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback, was selected in the fifth round (144th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft. Newton’s comments questioned Sanders’s performance and reignited a long-standing debate about quarterbacks’ evolving role and how this impacts team chemistry in the locker room.
Cam Newton Sets Unspoken Rules for QBs
Speaking on his “4th & 1 With Cam Newton” podcast, Newton didn’t shy away from bold opinions, saying, “Sanders should lead with work, not clout.” He claimed Sanders has adopted a defensive back’s swagger—something Newton argues is inappropriate for a franchise quarterback.
“It’s time to lead with WORK, not clout!” Shedeur Sanders just got his wake-up call…🗣🔥@CameronNewton‘s Hot Take of the Week out now!
📺: https://t.co/DmumsFwQ0e pic.twitter.com/8cCtrfTsGs
— 4th&1 with Cam Newton (@4thand1show) April 30, 2025
This comment sparked contrasting reactions, with some supporting Newton’s stance and others disagreeing.
Newton’s point is that a quarterback should maintain poise, control, and emotional stability—qualities he believes defensive backs don’t always exhibit. “You are not just another player on the field. You are the commander. You set the tone for the whole team,” he added.
Quarterbacks and Confidence
Historically, quarterbacks are expected to embody calm leadership and lead with quiet strength. Sanders, however, represents a newer generation of quarterbacks who balance talent with swag and self-assurance, both on and off the field.
Former NFL player Emmanuel Acho defends Sanders, saying, “Shedeur’s security makes a lot of people insecure.” As the game evolves, so will the rules and standards. Cam also said, “Quarterbacks do not need to be perfect but need to be dependable.”
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Sanders’s display of confidence, both on and off the field, has drawn widespread attention—not just from Newton. Sanders is unapologetically confident and unafraid to command media narratives. For example, he flashed his wristwatch during a touchdown celebration.
After falling to the fifth round in the draft, critics have continued to question his attitude. But Sanders appears unfazed. He remains defiant.
Still, Newton acknowledged Sanders’s talent, saying he is “deserving of a top-10 pick.” Out of concern, Newton warned that Sanders may face a humbling NFL journey if he doesn’t adjust his approach to the game and his public persona.
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