Cam Newton got off to a strong start in Foxborough, but he didn’t forget a cultural and cinematic hero during his own success.
After he scored his first TD with the New England Patriots, he spiked the ball and then paid tribute to the late actor and activist Chadwick Boseman.
Cam Newton’s Wakanda Forever Tribute
Watch Newton strike the Wakanda Forever pose popularized by Boseman in the Marvel Comics movie Black Panther.
Cam Newton scores his first TD for the Patriots, then throws up the Wakanda Forever salute 💪🏾
CAM BACK!
via @thecheckdown
CAM NEWTON 🙅🏿♂️ WAKANDA FOREVER
Boseman passed away from colon cancer in August and his death left many fans, especially members of the black community devastated and grief-stricken. Similar tributes have popped up across the sports world and in other aspects of entertainment.
It was beautiful to see Newton acknowledge a gentleman who had transcended the occupation of actor and ascended to the level of hero due to his grace, the insistence of specific roles for himself and people of color, and the importance of the parts he played on film.
Newton Was Like a Superhero Himself on Sunday
With a mistake-free throwing and an athletically-powerful run display, Newton accounted for two of the Patriots’ three touchdowns. The first score was punctuated with the Boseman tribute, and the second touchdown was finished off with a spike from center David Andrews. When asked why he gave the ball to Andrews to spike, Newton said:
“Dave is a person who was kind of in my boat. … I knew he would enjoy that.”
Newton was referencing Andrews missing the entire 2019 season with blood clots. While Newton’s situation wasn’t as serious as his teammate’s, but they can both speak to what it’s like watching from the sidelines and wishing they were on the field with their teams.
Giving up a moment of the spotlight was a nice gesture by Newton.
Projecting Newton’s Success Over 16 Games
At this pace, assuming he stays healthy, Newton could run easily pass 700 yards rushing and double-digit rushing touchdowns. The scoring throws will come as well, but perhaps the most important stat is the zero in the turnover column. If he remains efficient as a passer and smart as a runner, this could be a great season for the Patriots and Newton.
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Cam Newton Pays Tribute to Fallen Hero After First Patriots TD [WATCH]