ESPN has dismissed Samantha Ponder, the host of “Sunday NFL Countdown,” and analyst Robert Griffin III, in a decision driven by financial considerations as the broadcasting network approaches the end of its fiscal year. Both Ponder and Griffin earned salaries exceeding one million dollars, and their contracts were among ESPN’s most expensive. Possible replacements for Ponder are Laura Rutledge, the host of “NFL Live,” and Mike Greenberg, host of “Get Up,” with Greenberg rumored to be the frontrunner. While this marks ESPN’s only staff reductions at present, further cuts may be made by the end of September.
Ponder, whose contract was reported to be worth over $3 million, was due to begin the final season of her three-year deal. For the majority of the year after hosting “Sunday NFL Countdown,” she enjoyed a relaxed schedule usual for broadcasting personas like Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Peyton Manning. Griffin, a recent hire with two years remaining in his contract, was paid seven figures annually, but his function at ESPN had been reduced to the extent that he was seen as expendable.
Griffin, who had been seen as a rising star at ESPN, was brought on board after expressing interest in Fox Sports and ESPN, where he impressed with his auditions. Last season, he was a prominent contender for the role of No. 2 college football game analyst alongside Sean McDonough, although the position ultimately went to Greg McElroy. The first indicator of Griffin’s decreasing relevance at ESPN was his removal from “Monday Night Countdown,” where he had held a prominent spot for two years. Jason Kelce was hired to replace him.
Despite his reduced role, over the past season, Griffin was part of one of ESPN’s top college game broadcast teams, alongside Bob Wischusen. Fox Sports has a history of expressing interest in Griffin, and when looking to replace Reggie Bush on its “Big Noon Kickoff” pre-game show, Griffin was high on the shortlist. However, the position went to another former Heisman winner, Mark Ingram II.
Ponder occasionally engaged with politically sensitive subjects on social media. In 2017, she replaced the legendary Chris Berman on “Countdown” in a move considered a surprise due to her limited NFL experience. She had been associated with ESPN’s iconic pre-game show, “College GameDay.” Griffin, on the other hand, frequently used his social media platforms to comment on a range of issues, including when ESPN was embroiled in controversies.
Griffin acknowledged his dismissal from ESPN in a post on X, expressing gratitude for the numerous individuals who had contributed to his professional development during his time there. He also thanked everyone who had supported him and his family throughout his playing and broadcasting careers. Neither Griffin nor Ponder offered any comment in response to The Athletic. ESPN declined to provide any statement on Griffin’s termination.
