Panthers say Newton expressed regret to reporter, she refutes

The Carolina Panthers have responded to Cam Newton's inappropriate remarks during his media session on Wednesday, though their facts have been called into question.

Related - Newton to reporter: 'It's funny to hear a female talk about routes'

After Newton was asked a question by Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer and laughed at the idea of a female talking about football, the Panthers put out a statement via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport acknowledging that the quarterback's comments were regretful.

I have spoken with Jourdan and Cam and I know they had a conversation where he expressed regret for using those words. We strive as a department to make the environment for media comfortable for everyone covering the team.

Rodrigue also confirmed that she and Newton spoke after the press conference earlier in the day, though she indicated it was not an impressive response.

Rodrigue released an official statement via Rapoport refuting the Panthers' claim Newton had "expressed regret".

This afternoon, I did my job as an NFL beat writer and asked Cam Newton a question about one of his receivers. I was dismayed by his response, which not only belittled me but countless other women before me and beside me who work in similar jobs.

I sought Mr. Newton out as he left the locker room a few minutes later. He did not apologize.

The NFL also released a statement via Christine Brennan of USA Today that carried much more conviction than the Panthers'.

The comments are just plain wrong and disrespectful to the exceptional female reporters and all journalists who cover our league. They do not reflect the thinking of the league.