Cam Newton criticizes the NFL’s delayed response to dangerous hits on quarterbacks like Trevor Lawrence, drawing comparisons to his own era.
The recent hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence by Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair reignited the conversation around player safety in the NFL. Former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton weighed in on the incident, questioning the league’s seemingly inconsistent approach to protecting quarterbacks.
Newton’s “Forefather” Argument
Cam Newton attends the BET Awards Media House on June 29, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
On ESPN’s “First Take,” Newton argued that while Al-Shaair’s hit was undeniably egregious, it highlighted a double standard. As a mobile quarterback who often endured hard hits during his career, Newton felt the league wasn’t as proactive in protecting quarterbacks then as it is now. “Where were these suspensions when I was playing?” Newton asked, positioning himself as a “forefather of the hit taker.” He emphasized that similar hits during his prime rarely resulted in ejections, let alone suspensions.
Evolution of NFL Player Safety Rules
Former NFL player Cam Newton attends the game between the Detroit Pistons and the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on December 18, 2023 in Atlanta…
Since Newton’s prime, the NFL has implemented significant rule changes to protect quarterbacks and wide receivers. The emphasis on player safety has become paramount, with stricter penalties for late hits, helmet-to-helmet contact, and roughing the passer. The introduction of guardian caps in 2024 further underscores the league’s commitment to mitigating head injuries. These caps, worn over helmets during practices, provide an extra layer of protection against impact.
Al-Shaair’s Hit and its Consequences
Al-Shaair’s hit on Lawrence, a head-to-head collision as Lawrence slid to the ground, resulted in Lawrence’s placement on injured reserve. The incident sparked an on-field altercation and led to Al-Shaair’s ejection from the game. The NFL subsequently suspended Al-Shaair for three games, sidelining him until the final game of the season. This severe punishment reflects the league’s current stance on player safety and its commitment to protecting quarterbacks from dangerous hits.
The Lasting Impact on the Game
The debate sparked by Newton’s comments highlights the ongoing evolution of player safety in the NFL. While the league has made significant strides in protecting its players, questions remain about consistency and whether past players were adequately protected. The incident involving Lawrence and Al-Shaair serves as a stark reminder of the potential for serious injury in the sport and underscores the importance of continuous efforts to improve player safety. The conversation continues as the league strives to strike a balance between protecting its players and preserving the integrity of the game.
