It seems that Shannon Sharpe is facing a decision between becoming MASE or Puffy. Working for ESPN, particularly in a role like First Take, means that he will always be in second place behind Stephen A. Smith. If I were in Sharpe’s position, I would aim to have my own show while still making appearances on First Take. However, if the salary is exceptionally high, it may not matter if he has to play second fiddle to Stephen A.
Here is the latest about where Shannon might end up via Front Office Sports.
Shannon Sharpe has talked to ESPN about becoming a high-profile “contributor,” Front Office Sports has learned.
The contributor’s role would enable the former co-host of FS1’s “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed” to join the rotating cast of stars debating Stephen A. Smith on ESPN’s top-rated “First Take.”
At the same time, the arrangement would enable the free agent Sharpe to continue his weekly “Club Shay Shay” podcast, which now boasts 1.23 million subscribers, and potentially score a lucrative gig with sports betting operator FanDuel, which allows talent to work with other companies on a non-exclusive basis.
But the Sharpe-ESPN deal is not finalized, cautioned sources. The three-time Super Bowl champion has talked to several potential employers since leaving FS1.
Over the last week, Sharpe and his representatives have had a series of meetings with suitors, one source said. He’s expected to make a move in August before kickoff of the 2023 NFL season.
In my opinion, Shannon holds more leverage in any negotiation with ESPN, as the network needs him more than he needs them. While he desires a significant role in the NFL, he also wants the freedom to express himself freely. If ESPN is not offering Joe Buck a similar deal, I suggest Shannon explores the option of being his own boss.
