Former Auburn All-American Cam Newton shared that his involvement in the third season of the FOX TV series “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” provided him with an experience he felt was missing since his days as an NFL quarterback.
“Special Forces,” airing at 7 p.m. CST on Wednesdays on FOX and available for streaming on Hulu, features a lineup of celebrities undertaking rigorous training exercises that are part of the selection process for U.S. special operations forces. As of the third episode of Season 3, Newton is one of the eight remaining contestants from the original 16.
During a recent episode of his “4th and 1” podcast, Newton addressed the common question of why he chose to participate in the show. “I wanted a challenge in my life,” he said. He humorously noted that in everyday life, it’s easy to forget the emotions and fears that once drove his greatness. “As an ordinary person, it’s hard to find something that truly satisfies that intense competitive drive I had in football,” he explained. The show allowed him to confront and express emotions he felt he had been masking, attributing this to the experience of the program, which reignited his need for adrenaline and challenge.
Among the standout moments for Newton included jumping from a moving boat to a helicopter and competing with fellow contestants. He conveyed that the show filled a significant void in his life, equating thrilling activities like skiing and surfing to that need for excitement. “If you don’t find these outlets, that’s when you go crazy,” he warned.
Despite the valuable experiences he gained from the show, Newton emphasized that it was a unique opportunity he wouldn’t repeat. “It was a fun life experience, but would I do it again? Absolutely not,” he stated.
Newton also gained a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel who qualify for special forces. He reflected on the meaning behind the title “the world’s toughest test,” noting that what he experienced was a glimpse into the daily realities faced by Navy SEALs and Marines. “I had taken their sacrifices for granted, but participating made me realize just how demanding their training truly is,” he concluded.
