'First Take' Personality Floats Theory About Molly Qerim's ESPN Departure

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Oct 15, 2025 9:36 AM ET

Last month, ESPN sadly announced that Molly Qerim would no longer be the host of "First Take." She held that position for a decade, working alongside Stephen A. Smith and plenty of other outspoken personalities.

Initially, Austin Karp of Sports Business Journal reported that Qerim would leave “First Take” at the end of the year. However, she decided to step away from the spotlight now instead of waiting until December.

“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world," Qerim wrote. "I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes."

Qerim was a beloved member of the ESPN family. She first joined ESPN in 2006 before leaving for a role with NFL Network. It wasn't until 2015 that she returned to the Worldwide Leader In Sports.

Why did Molly leave ESPN?

Chris "Mad Dog" Russo made an appearance on the "SI Media Podcast" with Jimmy Traina this week. He admit that he was "shocked" by Qerim's departure.

That being said, Russo thinks Qerim left because she didn't want to be a lame duck at ESPN.

"I think she precipitated it. … I think, probably, she felt embarrassed," Russo said, via the New York Post. "I didn’t talk to her about the specifics of why she decided as soon as it was in the Sports Business Journal, but that’s what I’m thinking — that she probably would have felt embarrassed if the world would have thought that she was a lame duck and she was still doing the show. So, that I think that probably had a little something to do with it."

For what it's worth, Smith said Qerim discussed a new deal with ESPN before walking away.

“The details, quite frankly, are none of ya’ll business, but it’s not as if I know all the details. There was a contract negotiation that was going on. ESPN certainly did not want to lose her, but in the end she made a decision to walk away from the show, effective immediately.”

We'll see if Qerim responds to Russo's comments.

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

More must-reads: