Former All-Pro receiver Steve Smith is expected to have a recurring role on ESPN studio programming, sources told Front Office Sports.
While the plan for exactly when and where Smith will appear is still fluid, it could include shows like Get Up, First Take, NFL Live, and the expected-to-be-announced Peter Schrager show that will air at 2 p.m. ET after The Pat McAfee Show.
An ESPN spokesperson declined to comment.
Smith comes to ESPN via Disney’s acquisition of NFL Network. ESPN has already had other talent from the league-owned network, including Kyle Brandt and Stacey Dales, on its shows in recent weeks. FOS previously reported that they are expected to be recurring contributors.
Smith has a fiery personality—that was on display during his playing days with the Panthers and Ravens—that translates well to TV. It’s easy to envision him having entertaining debates with Stephen A. Smith.
Last week, NFL analysts Ryan Clark and Cam Newton were included in a round of layoffs at ESPN. Reporter Tom Pelissero, who had come over from NFL Network, was also among the cuts.
