Antonio Brown and Cam Newton were the top two players in their positions in 2010. Both had unceremonious exits from the NFL, and both are looking to extend their careers in very different ways.
Newton is doing everything he can to get back into the league. He has conducted private training sessions for team scouts, posted training videos, and even cast at Auburn’s Pro Day earlier this year. He gave interviews asking why he wasn’t given another chance, and his “accidentally getting a job” quote is now infamous.
Antonio Brown: $150,000 for Cam Newton if he plays with me
If anyone saw @CameronNewton let him know he hasn’t thrown me a touchdown in a game yet and now we can finally do it @thealbanyempir 16.06.23 in Albany, New York! I offer Cam 150,000. one game with me, please spam his account 🗣️⏰ #AceBoogieToAB
— AB (@AB84) May 28, 2023
Brown went a different route. He’s certainly back in the league, even though it’s not the NFL. The struggling wide receiver is set to make his Arena League debut on June 16, playing for the Albany Empire (who there are conflicting reports regarding Brown’s potential involvement).
Apparently, he wants Newton to join him.
Brown took to Twitter on Sunday calling out the former Panthers and Patriots quarterback. Brown starts by asking if anyone has seen Newton. He goes on to say that the duo have never linked a touchdown pass and that they may eventually do so if Newton agrees to play in June. He then offers Newton $150,000, although there is no dollar sign in the tweet.
🥇🗣️🐝 pic.twitter.com/sxuvj2S5lW
— AB (@AB84) May 28, 2023
It is highly doubtful that Cam Newton took the bait. While there are good stories of players beginning their careers in Arena Football before entering the NFL, he would probably consider it a sort of demotion and perhaps a gimmick. Newton has not done well in recent years but still believes he deserves a place in the league.
It remains to be seen whether Brown himself will play in the game at all. It was his off-field antics and problems that cost him his NFL job, and he remained in the news even after his playing days were over.
While a duo teaming up is a hit, it’s fun to think about the possibility. Cam Newton was struggling with arm strength, and the shorter pitch in the Arena League could make him look like a passing MVP again.
