ESPN's Laura Rutledge Announces Significant Career Change

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated May 26, 2026 11:45 AM ET

ESPN star Laura Rutledge has announced a significant career change.

The beloved ESPN star is officially leaving her longest-tenured gig within the Worldwide Leader in Sports. Rutledge, who has become known for her hosting of "NFL Live" and reporting for "Monday Night Football" and the College Football Playoff, has been hosting SEC Nation - the SEC Network's version of "College GameDay" - for a decade.

However, that run is ending.

Rutledge has decided that it's time to step away from her duties with the SEC Network, as she continues to add more and more responsibilities at ESPN.

Laura Rutledge on ESPN.© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Rutledge announced the decision on Tuesday, May 26.

"Ten years ago, I walked onto this set not fully knowing what the journey would become. Today, I walk away knowing it became one of the most meaningful chapters of my life," she announced.

"Ten years ago, I walked onto this set not fully knowing what the journey would become. Today, I walk away knowing it became one of the most meaningful chapters of my life."

Thank you for making our Saturday mornings that much better, @LauraRutledge. We will miss you … pic.twitter.com/azYivCS7Rs
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) May 26, 2026

Rutledge opened up about her decision to leave the show

Rutledge made it clear that it was a very hard decision.

“It’s hard to say goodbye to something that has given me so much. SEC Nation has shaped me, challenged me and given me memories I will carry forever. While this chapter is coming to a close, the impact it’s had on me never will. I’ll still be involved in college football and the SEC and I’m excited for those opportunities. Thank you for letting me be a part of your Saturdays, your traditions and your stories. It has truly been an honor,” Rutledge wrote in a first-person essay for ESPN Front Row.

ESPN executive Burke Magnus is grateful for all of Rutledge's work on the show.

“For more than a decade, Laura has been a beloved and integral member of the SEC Nation family, combining her love of college football with her passion for storytelling. As Laura continues to expand her NFL assignments in ESPN’s Super Bowl year, we’re incredibly grateful for everything she has contributed to SEC Network and for the lasting impact she’s made," he said.

ESPN has yet to name a replacement.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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