ESPN announces big news about Shannon Sharpe

ESPN is officially extending its partnership with Unc.

In a news release on Tuesday, ESPN announced that they have signed Pro Football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe, who has become one of the most prominent figures in sports media, to a new multi-year deal. As part of the agreement, Sharpe will now see an increased role on the ESPN show “First Take” as well as a role expansion on various other programs on the network to be announced later, the release adds.

Now 55 years old, Sharpe worked at ESPN’s competitor FS1 from 2016-23 before a very high-profile breakup with them. He then joined ESPN in August 2023 and has since been appearing on “First Take” in a complementary role behind lead anchor Stephen A. Smith and a rotating cast of guest panelists.

Sharpe has had some growing pains with the network and is still trying to find his niche in a space where Smith dominates. But with this new multi-year agreement, it is clear that ESPN is willing to let Sharpe grow into his role with them.