Molly Qerim Leaves ESPN Amid Contract Disputes, Stephen A. Smith Relations

Molly Qerim's abrupt departure from ESPN's "First Take" after a decade is believed to be due to failed contract negotiations, according to former ESPN host Marcellus Wiley. Qerim reportedly sought a significant raise and the opportunity to host her own show within ESPN, but the network declined both requests. Wiley also suggested that Qerim's relationship with Stephen A. Smith was strained, noting her lack of public acknowledgment of him upon leaving, and implied that without Smith's support, ESPN was unwilling to meet her demands. ESPN President Burke Magnus indicated that Qerim wanted to explore new opportunities after a long tenure on the show. Meanwhile, NFL legend Drew Brees will join "First Take" as a weekly contributor following Qerim's exit, and reports suggest Fox has offered Qerim a lucrative multi-year contract. The situation highlights internal dynamics at ESPN and the competitive nature of sports media talent negotiations.