ESPN is reportedly preparing to make a big bet on one of its newest faces. According to a report from The Athletic, the network is closing in on a decision that would give NFL reporter Peter Schrager his own weekday show in the key 2 PM ET time slot.
Schrager, who joined ESPN last April after a stint at NFL Network and FOX, has been a regular presence on the network’s airwaves. He’s made guest appearances on shows like “Get Up,” “NFL Live,” and the “Pat McAfee Show,” and those cameos have reportedly impressed ESPN brass enough to consider him as a solo host.
The proposed show would fill the 2 PM ET window, with “SportsCenter” moving into the 5 PM ET slot currently occupied by “Around the Horn.” If the plan goes through, it would represent a significant vote of confidence in Schrager, who signed a multi-year deal with the network last spring.
That said, no final decision has been made yet. And if Schrager does get his own gig, it could limit his ability to contribute to other studio shows, given the demands of hosting a daily program.
Schrager himself admitted in a recent interview with Barrett Media that he initially worried about fitting in at ESPN. “I was worried it was, ‘Hey, this is going to be your role because it’s what Adam Schefter does,’” he said. “It’s been the opposite. Instead of trying to force me into roles because of others, it’s been, ‘Hey, you’re Peter Schrager. Let’s build around your skillset and get the most out of you.’”
He added that the network has embraced his voice and allowed him to flex different muscles. “ESPN has accepted me and my voice… It doesn’t have to be how do I adjust to these shows. It’s been these shows are going to adjust to what you want to do also. That’s been the greatest thing.”
Schrager also noted that knowing a Super Bowl broadcast was on the horizon made the transition easier, and that he’s felt welcomed by his new colleagues.
The move comes at a time when ESPN is reshaping its afternoon lineup, and Schrager’s potential show would add a fresh voice to the mix. It also echoes the network’s recent willingness to give prominent roles to personalities who can connect with a broad audience, much like other reporters who have found their niche at the network.
If the deal goes through, it would be a major step for Schrager, who has already made a name for himself as a versatile football analyst. And for ESPN, it’s another sign that the network is willing to invest in talent that can carry a show on its own.
