Report: Shannon Sharpe in talks for contributor role with ESPN

Shannon Sharpe could soon pop up on TV screens across the country as the former FS1 host is reportedly in discussions to join ESPN.

According to Michael McCarthy and A.J. Perez of Front Office Sports, Sharpe has discussed becoming a high-profile “contributor,” a role which would see him eligible to join the rotating cast of stars in debating Stephen A. Smith on “First Take.” Additionally, the deal would enable Sharpe to continue his “Club Shay Shay” podcast, which has reached 1.23 million subscribers. A deal remains not finalized and Sharpe, the Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end, has talked with other companies since his exit from Fox Sports last month. He is expected to make a decision on his future in August — one month before the 2023 NFL season kicks off.

Sharpe, 55, wrapped up his duties on “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed” following the conclusion of the 2023 NBA Finals between the Denver Nuggets and Miami Heat after reaching a buyout with Fox Sports. While Smith would love to have him on “First Take,” he won’t alter the format of the show to accommodate him.

“I welcome Shannon Sharpe to “First Take,” but it would be in the mix of being part of the family. I’m not looking for an everyday person on “First Take.” So, for all of you clamoring for that, get over it,” Smith said on “The Stephen A. Smith Show” last month. “I like the potpourri of contributors. I like the action and the excitement and the fun on the show. Adding people into the mix is one thing. Changing the complete makeup and formula of the show is entirely different.”

Stephen A. Smith says he was ‘proud’ of Shannon Sharpe amid ‘Undisputed’ exit

Sharpe joined FS1 in 2016 alongside Skip Bayless after the latter left “First Take.” Sharpe filled in for Smith on multiple occasions, showing off his chemistry with Bayless. That chemistry made things easy for Fox Sports when they searched for a debating partner for Bayless.

Sharpe had nothing but positive things to say about Bayless during the duo’s final show together. Smith took notice. Although the two are no longer colleagues, Smith maintains an incredible amount of respect for Bayless. And he was happy to see Sharpe treat the sports journalist with the same respect.

“Shocking as it may be to some of you. There’s a whole bunch of brothers and sisters, Black people, that Skip Bayless has helped out and looked out for,” Smith said. “And I know people try to question his intent, I’m highlighting his results. There are people who have enjoyed a tremendous level of success in this business because Skip Bayless gave them a chance. I will always disagree with him on a case by case basis. We will fight sometimes, but I will never forget what he did for me. And I’m proud of Shannon Sharpe, that he didn’t forget either.”