Former Auburn QB Cam Newton Expresses Interest in Return to Program in Off-Field Role

Newton wants a managerial position with the Tigers, saying former players don't get enough respect as experts.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Former Auburn Tigers Heisman-winning quarterback Cam Newton recently expressed interest in making a return to the program, albeit in a non-coaching role. Newton, who is currently the co-host of ESPN's First Take and runs his own podcast, said he would love a managerial position at Auburn, stating that former players don't get enough respect as experts in the space.

Why it matters

Newton is one of the most decorated players in Auburn history, winning the Heisman Trophy and leading the Tigers to a national championship in 2010. His potential return to the program in an off-field role could bring valuable expertise and leadership, though it remains to be seen if Auburn's athletic department will be open to the idea.

The details

During the 2010 season for Auburn, Newton recorded 2,834 passing yards and 30 passing touchdowns to go along with 1,473 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns. He won the Heisman Trophy that year and led the Tigers to the national championship. Newton was then drafted with the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers, where he won the NFL's Most Valuable Player award in 2015. Since being drafted, Newton has made frequent appearances for Auburn during big games, including last season when he had his jersey retired.

  • In 2010, Newton won the Heisman Trophy and led Auburn to the national championship.
  • Newton was drafted 1st overall by the Carolina Panthers in the 2011 NFL Draft.
  • Newton won the NFL MVP award in 2015 with the Panthers.
  • Last season, Newton had his jersey retired by Auburn.

The players

Cam Newton

A former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback for the Auburn Tigers who later became the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers, where he won the NFL MVP award in 2015. Newton is now a co-host on ESPN's First Take and runs his own podcast.

John Cohen

The current athletic director at Auburn University.

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What they’re saying

“I would love a managerial position at Auburn. This is the reality. Former players don't get enough just respect of being an expert in the space. Certain players finesse their way to money that you couldn't do that (with their film). I would have incentive based contract (for Auburn players). If you hit these incentives, you'll definitely be paid.”

— Cam Newton, Former Auburn Quarterback (Snapback Sports Podcast)

What’s next

It will be up to Auburn athletic director John Cohen on whether or not he will have an answer to Newton's wishes and up to Newton to follow through on his interest in returning to the program in an off-field role.

The takeaway

Newton's potential return to Auburn in an off-field managerial role could bring valuable expertise and leadership to the program, though it remains to be seen if the university's athletic department will be open to the idea. This highlights the desire of former star players to stay involved with their alma maters in non-coaching capacities.