Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton is under fire Wednesday for a sexist comment he made during his press conference.
Female Charlotte Observer beat writer Jourdan Rodrigue asked Newton a reasonable question about his receivers running routes, asking him whether he enjoys that Devin Funchess has been more physical about the routes he has been running lately. Newton’s response was immature and uncalled for.
“It’s funny to hear a female talk about routes. It’s funny,” Newton said before answering the question, via Michael David Smith of ProFootballTalk.
Rodrigue took to Twitter after the press conference to give her thoughts on Newton’s remarks — and suggesting that he said even worse to her after the press conference when confronted about his answer.
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
Newton has never particularly enjoyed press conferences, especially after losses, which is fine. A certain amount of professionalism is required, though, and he did not offer anything close to it here. There was no reason to bring up the reporter’s gender, and there is no context where it would matter. An apology is probably coming sooner rather than later.
