Time: 2024-08-16
CNN reported that ESPN has decided to fire both football analyst Robert Griffin III and host Samantha Ponder , with financial reasons cited for both moves . Griffin , a former NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner , had been with ESPN since 2021 and was set to be replaced by Jason Kelce on Monday Night Countdown . Ponder , who had been with ESPN since 2011 , was informed of the decision Thursday morning . ESPN has not provided any comments regarding these actions.
With Ponder and Griffin no longer part of the team , potential replacements are being considered . NFL Live host Laura Rutledge and Get Up host Mike Greenberg are being discussed as replacements for Ponder , with Greenberg being considered the favorite according to sources . ESPN is not just stopping at these two moves , they could choose to shed more salary by the end of September , although not in the large quantities like the previous year.
Griffin , who was once viewed as a rising star at ESPN , had his role diminished over time , leading to his departure from the network . Last season , he was removed from Monday Night Countdown and was replaced by Jason Kelce . Despite interest from other networks like Fox Sports , Griffin 's diminished role led to his exit from ESPN . The decision to let him go was based on his reduced responsibilities and role within the network.
The departure of Samantha Ponder as the host of Sunday NFL Countdown will also lead to changes in ESPN 's broadcast teams . Ponder , who was in a prestigious role , will be replaced by a new host . The potential changes in personnel are part of ESPN 's ongoing efforts to optimize its lineup and improve its programming content.
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