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ESPN fired longtime reporter Sam Ponder last week, along with Robert Griffin III. The decision was met with much criticism from media members throughout the country.
ESPN says the move was made due to budget cuts, and they’ve moved quickly to find a replacement. Mike Greenberg will reportedly take over on Sunday NFL Countdown this fall.
Ponder had previously worked for the company in roles revolving around both college and professional football. News went public on Thursday about her being let go.
ESPN has fired “NFL Countdown” host Sam Ponder and analyst Robert Griffin III, sources briefed on the moves told The Athletic.
Both moves were made for financial reasons as ESPN nears the end of its fiscal year at the end of September, according to a source briefed on the matter. Both Ponder and Griffin made more than seven figures annually
Sam Ponder had a year remaining on her contract, which she will be paid out for, though her future is now unclear.
Many blasted the decision, with some hinting at other motives behind the firing.
I love you, @samponder ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2IMwURVfMN
— Sage Steele (@sagesteele) August 15, 2024
“This is a loss for ESPN,” said former co-worker Sage Steele. “But a gain for the rest of the world… Now you’re going to see the true Sam Ponder.”
Mike Greenberg will replace Sam Ponder.
ESPN’s PR team wrote an article on the moves this week.
Host Mike Greenberg will join the returning analysts – Super Bowl Champions Tedy Bruschi and Rex Ryan, Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss, three-time Pro Bowl quarterback Alex Smith. ESPN’s senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter will provide all the latest news and information, while Jeff Darlington, Dan Graziano, Kimberley A. Martin, Sal Paolantonio, and Lindsey Thiry will be the regular reporters at the week’s biggest games. Storytelling will remain prominent, with compelling features among the weekly highlights. Sports Betting analyst Erin Dolan also returns.
Andrew Marchand of The Athletic says that Greenberg got the job over Laura Rutledge.
“Greeny” is already a host on ESPN shows Get Up and NBA Countdown as he continues to add to his portfolio. The network pays him a reported $6.5 million per year.
Greenberg will begin his new role this fall with the NFL season set to start in three weeks.