Report: NFL confirms Newton was victim of illegal hit vs. Cardinals

The NFL has confirmed Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Calais Campbell should have been penalized for a low hit on Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton on Sunday, a source told Ed Werder of ESPN.

The play, a dive at the knees while in the pocket, prompted complaint from Newton after the game, as the quarterback made it clear he's not feeling protected by officials.

"It's really taking the fun out of the game for me," Newton said. "At times, it's not safe."

Commissioner Roger Goodell said he would speak directly with Newton about the situation after already talking to Panthers head coach Ron Rivera about protecting Newton.

"He's a bigger guy for that position, as opposed to some of the smaller guys,'' Rivera said. "When they get hit, they roll around to the ground. When he gets hit, he absorbs them and it doesn't look as bad."

"I think sometimes that might be part of the reason that he doesn't get the calls he deserves or should get.''