Cam Newton and Caleb Williams have a lot in common. Not only do they play the same position on the highest level, neither quarterback fits the traditional “mold” of societal norms— if you will.

They are both a little bit different.

Newton often grabs headlines with his unique fashion choices, blunt honesty, and unapologetic nature. Williams is equally as unwilling to compromise on who he is and draws frequent criticism for going against the grain. Haters love to flame him for painting his nails, crying after a loss, and carrying a pink phone case as if those things take away from his ability to play football.

Newton sees all of the criticism toward Williams, to which he can relate, as hypocritical.

Cam Newton understands Caleb Williams!

The United States of America prides itself on being the Land of the Free, where people are entitled to be their own individual person. So why isn’t Williams allowed to be himself? Isn’t that what this country is?

In the same breath, Newton explained that Gen Z has arrived. Every player in this year’s NFL Draft class was born in or after the year 2000. The 34-year-old works closely with this younger generation through various camps and his 7-on-7 team. He knows that they do things differently and wants people who are older to understand that the youth does not approach life in the same way as those who came before them. Times have changed.

In his eyes, so long as people like Williams perform up to the expected standard on the field, all of the personal stuff should be kept personal. If it bleeds into on-field play, it’s a different story.

Newton also reminded Williams, and all rookies, to throw their résumés out the window. Nobody cares what they did in the past. Ego cannot be attached to prior accomplishments. They don’t matter.

It is valuable hear this perspective from someone like Cam Newton, who drew similar judgement throughout his NFL Draft process and 10-year career. He still won an MVP even though he was “different.”

In the same way, Caleb Williams’ painted nails and pink phone case don’t reflect his talent. The former USC signal-caller won the Heisman Trophy for a reason!