Shannon Sharpe Out at ESPN Following Lawsuit Resolution

Former NFL tight end and current broadcaster Shannon Sharpe will not be returning to ESPN, according to a source familiar with the decision. The announcement comes after Sharpe resolved a lawsuit alleging sexual assault. The source requested anonymity as the decision has not been officially publicized.

Sharpe's final appearance on ESPN was in late April, coinciding with the filing of the lawsuit in Nevada. The details of the settlement remain undisclosed, though the lawsuit initially sought $50 million. Sharpe had previously refuted the accusations, labeling them as "false and disruptive," and expressed his desire to return to the network in time for the upcoming NFL season.

ESPN has chosen to part ways with Sharpe, a four-time All-Pro tight end who enjoyed a successful 14-year career, including three Super Bowl victories. Sharpe joined ESPN in 2023 and had signed a multiyear contract in 2024. He was a panelist on the network's morning show, First Take.

Since retiring from professional football in 2003, Sharpe has maintained a prominent presence in television and social media. He began his broadcasting career at CBS in 2004, serving as an analyst on The NFL Today until 2013. He later joined FS1's Undisputed alongside Skip Bayless in 2016, departing in 2023 following a disagreement.

Sharpe continues to host the Club Shay Shay and Nightcap podcasts with former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson.

Shannon Sharpe, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011, retired holding the NFL records for receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns among tight ends. His older brother, Sterling Sharpe, is set to be inducted into the Hall of Fame on Saturday.