Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton thinks some people may be scared of him because he is a black quarterback.
“I’ve said it since Day 1. I’m an African-American quarterback. That may scare a lot of people because they haven’t seen nothing that they can compare me to,” Newton said Wednesday during the Super Bowl media days. “Oftentimes, and it’s funny, I get inspired, it makes me go out there and practice even harder because I remember when I was working out for the draft, and I would see the Senior Bowl playing, and I see these guys out there busting their tails, trying to get drafted, trying to have a job to provide for their family or themselves and it’s like, here I am, I’m doing exactly what I want to do, how I want to do it.”
Newton has faced criticism throughout his time in the NFL due to actions perceived as obnoxious, such as his wild touchdown celebrations. (VIDEO: Seattle Seahawks Fan Trashes Cam Newton As ‘Classless’ Winner In Viral Letter)
The Panthers star has even been attacked for having a child outside of marriage. (RELATED: People Disappointed Cam Newton Had Child With Longtime Girlfriend Out Of Wedlock)
He certainly isn’t the only quarterback in the NFL that has been attacked over race. Seattle Seahawks superstar quarterback Russell Wilson had been allegedly accused by some teammates of not acting black enough.