Courtesy of ESPN Press Room/John R. Manzo
ESPN has agreed to a multi-year contract with HBCU football legend, Pro Football Hall of Famer, and three-time Super Bowl champion Shannon Sharpe. Under this new deal, Sharpe will expand his role on First Take, ESPN’s signature morning debate show featuring Stephen A. Smith and host Molly Qerim.
“Shannon Sharpe has been an incredible addition to the team, enhancing the show’s dynamic with his engaging presence and insightful commentary,” said David Roberts, ESPN’s Head of Event & Studio Production​. “Shannon’s chemistry with Stephen A. Smith has elevated our debates and been another key reason First Take is the premier destination for morning sports discussion.”
First Take recently earned its 22nd consecutive month of year-over-year growth and most-viewed May ever, thanks in part to Sharpe’s contributions.
Sharpe — who originally joined First Take in August 2023 — will also see his role expand across various other ESPN programs to be announced later.
Said Sharpe, “Being a part of this family has been a blessing. Everything about this relationship with ESPN, Stephen A., and First Take, has been tremendous. I look forward to expanding my role and showing more of the world what I have to offer. The show goes on!”
ESPN’s First Take airs weekdays from 10 a.m. — Noon ET on ESPN. Sharpe also hosts his weekly podcast, Club Shay Shay, where he sits down with athletes, celebrities and influencers to break down, analyze and discuss the latest headlines in sports, pop culture and everything in-between.
SHANNON SHARPE HBCU RESUME
Shannon Sharpe was a four-year letter winner at Savannah State University (1986-89). The Glennville, GA native was All-SIAC First Team in 1987, 88 and 89 and was and named the College Player of the Year in Georgia as a Senior. Sharpe owns SSU single season receiving records for yardage, touchdowns and yards per catch, finishing his career with 192 receptions for 3,744 yards and 40 touchdowns.