If you missed Cam Newton grabbing the headlines, don’t worry. He is back on the front pages, but it is not due to spectacular games like you may think. On Wednesday, while speaking with media, Newton was asked a question by Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer, one of many female reporters that cover the NFL. Rodrigue asked Newton about Caroline Panthers’ receiver Devin Funchess and how Funchess “embraced the physicality of his routes” in the current season. After hearing the word “routes”, Newton started started smirking at Rodrigue.
“It’s funny to hear a female talk about routes,” Newton said still laughing. “It’s funny.”
You can check the moment when Newton answered Rodrigue’s question below.
Cam Newton: “It’s funny to hear a female talk about routes.”
Uh, that’s a really, really bad way to answer a legitimate question. (video via https://t.co/NOdIiKyJCb) pic.twitter.com/MaS4KVjuSV
— Max Marcilla (@MMarcilla98) October 4, 2017
Jourdan Rodrigue reacted to comments Newton made later on her Twitter account by writing the following: ” I don’t think it’s “funny” to be a female and talk about routes. I think it’s my job.” Rodrigue also added that she talked with Newton after the press conference and that the conversation “was worse”.
I don't think it's "funny" to be a female and talk about routes. I think it's my job.
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) October 4, 2017
I spoke with him after and it was worse. I chose not to share, because I have an actual job to do today and one he will not keep me from.
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) October 4, 2017
Also, according to Rodrigue, Newton never apologized for his comments.
“I was dismayed by his response, which not only belittled me but countless other women before me and beside me who work in similar jobs.” – said Rodrigue. “I sought Mr. Newton out as he left the locker room a few minutes later. He did not apologize for his comments.”
After the incident, Panthers spokesman Steven Drummond released a statement about the matter.
“I have spoken with Jourdan and Cam and I know they had a conversation where he expressed regret for using those words. We strive as a department to make the environment for media comfortable for everyone covering the team.”
This isn’t the first time Cam Newton had problems with his comments to female reporters. In 2012, he called one reporter “sweetheart”.
