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Update:
Shannon Sharpe will debate Stephen A. Smith on Mondays and Tuesdays on the ESPN on ‘Fire Take’, according the New York Post’s Andrew Marchand and Ryan Glasspiegel.
Original Story:
Shannon Sharpe, the former co-host of FS1’s Undisputed has engaged in discussions with ESPN regarding a prominent “contributor” role, according to sources from Front Office Sports.
This potential position would allow Sharpe to join the esteemed lineup of personalities on ESPN’s highly-rated First Take where he would participate in debates alongside Stephen A. Smith.
Additionally, FanDuel has reportedly held previous discussions with Sharpe regarding the possibility of him replacing Pat McAfee, who recently departed for ESPN.
Among the contributors on ESPN’s First Take are Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin (pending resolution of his legal issues), Sirius XM’s Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, and Ryan Clark.
By accepting this role, Sharpe would have the opportunity to maintain his popular weekly podcast, “Club Shay Shay,” which currently boasts an impressive 1.23 million subscribers.
Furthermore, he could potentially secure that lucrative partnership FanDuel, as they allow their talent to engage in non-exclusive collaborations with other companies.
Meanwhile, Sharpe’s former partner Skip Bayless has taken a two-month hiatus as he’s struggling find a co-host to replace Sharpe.
It is important to note that the deal between Sharpe and ESPN has not been finalized, as cautioned by FOS.
Since parting ways with FS1, Sharpe has been exploring various potential employment opportunities. Sources tell the the outlet that Sharpe and his representatives have been engaged in a series of meetings with interested parties over the past week.
It is expected that he will make a decision in August, just before the kickoff of the 2023 NFL season.