Bill Romanowski Responds to Criticism of Cam Newton Comments After Super Bowl 50

Former Denver Broncos linebacker Bill Romanowski criticized Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton for cutting his press conference short after Denver's 24-10 victory Sunday in Super Bowl 50.

Romanowski tweeted at Newton, "The world doesn't revolve around you, boy!" which some considered to be racist. TMZ Sports interviewed Romanowski on Monday about the now-deleted tweet, and he said he meant nothing racially derogatory by his remark to the Panthers signal-caller.

"I think the world of Cam Newton. I didn't like the way he handled the press conference," said Romanowski. "I can't believe that [boy] is something that's racially motivated. So it's my fault, and I own it, and it's on me."

The four-time Super Bowl champion also tweeted an apology Sunday and retweeted the following analysis from ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith:   

Newton was in close proximity to Denver cornerback Chris Harris Jr. while both were doing their postgame interviews. As ESPN.com's David Newton reported Monday, Harris may have had something to do with Cam Newton leaving the podium early.

It’s easy to see why Newton was upset. Though he ran for 45 yards on six carries, the strapping QB went just 18-of-41 for 265 yards. He also threw an interception and was sacked six times by the Broncos.

Whatever the reason for his abrupt exit from the media area, Newton did leave himself open to criticism. Whether or not the criticism was racially motivated, Romanowski seems determined to quash the controversy.