Overview

• ESPN content chief Burke Magnus said negotiations with Molly Qerim had included moving her off First Take at year-end, but public reporting accelerated the split.
• The network plans to test a range of hosts on air for 30–45 days before naming a permanent moderator, prioritizing internal options but not ruling out an external hire.
• Stephen A. Smith has helmed the show since Tuesday following Qerim’s resignation after a decade as moderator.
• Qerim hinted at her next move by closing her Instagram announcement with “Stay tuned,” signaling new opportunities could be imminent.
• A report claims Fox Sports has discussed a three-year offer worth around $2 million annually, a detail not independently confirmed as fans and outlets also propose candidates such as Shae Cornette, Christine Williamson, Courtney Cronin and Monica McNutt.