Cam Newton isn’t holding back when it comes to the way he sees Black parents being portrayed in sports media. In a recent episode of his Funky Friday podcast, Newton came to the defense of Deion Sanders and Regina Jackson-two high-profile parents who’ve played major roles in their children’s football careers.
To Newton, the backlash they face isn’t just about involvement-it’s about race.“The media has this image of Black parents being absent,”he said.“So when we show up and take control, suddenly it’s a problem.”
Regina Jackson, mother of 2023 Heisman winner Jayden Daniels, has taken heat for how tightly she manages her son’s professional circle. She’s protective, vocal, and according to Newton, doing exactly what any parent in her position should be doing. Deion Sanders, meanwhile, has spent years coaching his sons Shedeur and Shilo while also turning the University of Colorado into a media magnet. He’s not just coaching football-he’s guiding his family.
What’s Applauded in One Parent is Criticized in Another
Newton pointed out how sports media often celebrates similar behavior-when it comes from white families. “Look at Archie Manning,”Newton said.“He did the same thing for Eli and Peyton. He’s a legend. But when Deion does it, it’s called a circus.”
The same pattern shows up again and again. LaVar Ball, Richard Williams, even Newton’s own father, Cecil-they’ve all been cast as “too much” by the media, while their white counterparts are praised for being involved and dedicated.
In 2020, The Undefeated published a piece highlighting these racial double standards, arguing that supportive Black parenting in sports is often framed as controlling or manipulative. Newton echoed that idea, calling it “propaganda” that needs to be addressed.
“I just don’t appreciate how the media frames it,”Newton said. “These are great parents. They’re doing the work. Let them.”
He ended with a message directly to Sanders, Jackson, and Daniels: keep going.“You’re setting the example. Don’t change a thing.”
Read the full article here
