Could Chad Ochocinco Replace Shannon Sharpe on ESPN’s First Take? Here’s What We Know

Shannon Sharpe’s Sudden ESPN Exit Shakes Up First Take

ESPN made headlines by cutting ties with Shannon Sharpe , removing one of First Take's key stars as the NFL 2025 season approaches. Sharpe, known for his outspoken opinions and on-screen chemistry with Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim , leaves a significant void on the network's flagship morning show.

The decision comes just weeks after Sharpe settled a sexual harassment lawsuit for a reported $50 million , a move that may have influenced ESPN's internal decision-making.

Enter Chad Ochocinco: A Bold, Familiar Option

With Sharpe's departure, Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson's name is emerging as his potential replacement. Johnson already co-hosts the Nightcap podcast with Sharpe and has built a loyal fanbase through his digital and TV work.

He recently appeared on First Take during a Madden 26 promotion and looked pretty comfortable. Johnson joked on-air, "I'll get used to it in the next six months," thus signaling his interest in a permanent role.

Sources say ESPN is looking into the matter:

"If they put Chad on there, it could make [Sharpe's] audience happy when the NFL season actually starts," one insider told Front Office Sports.

Why Chad Ochocinco Makes Sense for ESPN

Ochocinco isn't just a former NFL star—he's a seasoned media personality. He's worked on Inside the NFL, covered the FIFA World Cup 2022 for Fox, and co-hosts Nightcap, which has nearly 6 million YouTube subscribers, with Sharpe's club star Shay Shay.

Top reasons ESPN is considering him:

• He can help retain Sharpe's digital fan base

• He connects well with younger viewers

• He's already appeared on First Take and fits the show's tone

ESPN’s Other First Take Options

Johnson is a great candidate, but ESPN has more talent on its hands. Peter Schrager reports they've re-signed Dan Orlovsky , and regularly spot other NFL personalities.

So far ESPN has declined to comment on whether Johnson is officially being considered, and sources say the network may wait until Sharpe's Hall of Fame weekend has passed before making a move.

Sharpe Reflects on Exit: “At Peace” but Disappointed

Despite his abrupt departure, Sharpe remains calm. On NightCap , he said he was "cool" with ESPN's decision, though he expressed disappointment that it came just before his brother Sterling Sharpe's long-awaited Hall of Fame induction .

He also hinted at future plans for his media empire, saying that although litigation has disrupted a potential $100 million Club Shay deal, his loyal fan base ensures a strong future.

ESPN Cautiously Considers Chad Johnson for First Take

There's buzz, but no final decision yet. Chad Johnson could bring energy, humor and a certain audience to First Take, but ESPN is exercising caution for now.

Until then, Sharpe's fans will likely follow him wherever he goes, and ESPN will be closely watching how the start of the NFL season reshapes viewer demand.