Overview

• Smith made his first Monday Night Countdown appearance before Lions–Ravens, joining Scott Van Pelt, Jason Kelce and Marcus Spears and conducting an on-field conversation with Jahmyr Gibbs.
• He told Front Office Sports he will work at least three editions this season, specifying Week 3 (Lions at Ravens), Week 9 (Cardinals at Cowboys) and Week 14 (Eagles at Chargers).
• Deadline noted the upcoming slots as Nov. 3 for Cardinals–Cowboys and Dec. 8 for Eagles–Chargers, reflecting his stated three-game plan.
• Reactions to his debut were divided, with some viewers praising his presence and many others criticizing the fit and saying they’re tired of seeing him across ESPN shows.
• Front Office Sports reporting ties the MNF role to Smith’s recent extension, and ESPN chief Jimmy Pitaro has said the network is open to him taking on more NFL involvement.