ESPN has plenty of internal candidates who could join First Take
STEPHEN A. Smith and ESPN have yet to agree on a new contract to keep him at the network.
The two parties have exchanged figures, but so far nothing has been solidified.
ESPN reportedly offered Stephen A. a $90 million contract over five years, an annual value of $18 million, according to Puck.
However, the network is far off from what Stephen A. wants in his deal, with the First Take host looking for $25 million in annual value.
His contract expires in 2025, and Stephen A. is willing to move networks to get that value.
With the threat of Stephen A. leaving ESPN looming, let’s take a look at some potential names that could replace him on First Take.
SHANNON SHARPE
Shannon Sharpe is the logical first choice to take over on the First Take desk in the event that Stephen A. leaves.
Sharpe has grown into a fan-favorite and already has experience alongside Molly Qerim and other guests.
The former NFL tight end recently signed an extension with ESPN, so he will be around for the foreseeable future.
Sharpe could help provide stability on First Take during a transition period away from Stephen A.
RYAN CLARK
Like Sharpe, Ryan Clark already has experience on the First Take desk.
Clark is also one of ESPN’s top talents and could be due for a promotion after putting in work across many of their shows.
