The axe has fallen at ESPN again, and Stephen A. Smith is making sure everyone still standing hears the message loud and clear: nobody is untouchable.
As the network cuts dozens of high-profile on-air talents, including Tom Pelissero, Ryan Clark, Bart Scott, and Cam Newton, the First Take star is sounding a serious warning for those who survived this round.
‘I’m Not Happy About This Decision One Bit’
Smith didn't hold back when discussing the departure of Ryan Clark, a regular contributor to First Take and a man Smith calls “arguably the best NFL analyst in America.” On his personal podcast Tuesday, Smith expressed deep frustration.
“Ryan Clark … is no longer with ESPN,” Smith said. “I can’t even tell y’all how much that hurts. He’s a man, so he’ll handle it the way men do. But I’m going to miss him, and I’m not happy about this decision one bit. The bosses know I’m not happy about this decision. I’ve made that very, very clear.”
His loyalty to Clark is clear, but Smith’s broader message is directed at everyone still collecting a paycheck at the network.
A Warning to All ESPN Employees
Speaking on Tuesday, Smith reminded his colleagues that job security in sports media is an illusion. He pointed to his own history—ESPN cut him back in 2009—as proof that even the biggest names can be shown the door.
“Any of us could be next,” Smith warned. He urged coworkers to make the most of their current positions because the next wave of layoffs could target anyone, including him.
This isn’t just speculation. ESPN has been trimming staff for years, and the latest cuts are tied to the network’s acquisition of NFL Network assets. President Jimmy Pitaro issued a statement calling the moves “difficult decisions about job impacts” necessary to “best position us for the future.”
But for those who remain, Smith’s advice is simple: do your best work now, because tomorrow is never guaranteed.
Who Else Got Cut?
The layoffs hit a wide range of talent. Along with Clark and Pelissero, ESPN also let go of Karl Ravech, David Lloyd, and others. The cuts have sparked fan outrage and raised questions about the network’s direction.
Smith, who reportedly earns around $20 million per year, remains one of ESPN’s biggest stars. But even he knows that in this business, the rug can be pulled out from under anyone at any time.
“Do whatever you can for now,” Smith said, “because you don’t know what’s coming.”
