Free agency in the world of sports media is already underway. Within the last few weeks, ESPN has inked a deal with Pat McAfee and let go of more than 20 on-air personalities. Meanwhile, Shannon Sharpe has cut ties with FS1 and Undisputed in search of greener pastures. Initially, reports suggested Sharpe was in talks with FanDuel for a new deal. While it’s unclear where negotiations with FanDuel are headed, Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports believes Sharpe may end up sitting across from Stephen A. Smith on First Take.
“Skip Bayless’ former debate partner has been quiet since leaving FS1’s Undisputed. After losing Pat McAfee to ESPN, FanDuel has engaged in early talks with Sharpe. And the sports betting giant has money to burn after writing McAfee’s $30 million a year contract off the books,” McCarthy wrote.
“But here’s why Sharpe moving to ESPN makes more sense. He loves the spotlight. The three-time Super Bowl winner could play an outsized role as Young’s successor on Monday Night Countdown. He could also join Stephen A. Smith’s rotating list of debaters on First Take, along with Redick, Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo, and Michael Irvin.”
It’s unclear if Sharpe would consider joining ESPN’s roster of on-air talent, but it is not out of the realm of possibility. The network has made an effort to acquire premier talent in recent years, including Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Pat McAfee.
