Robert Griffin III, Sam Ponder let go by ESPN in budget moves
NFL analyst Robert Griffin III and "NFL Countdown" host Sam Ponder have been let go by ESPN, according to Andrew Marchand of The Athletic.
The moves are budget-related, per Marchand, with the network nearing the end of its fiscal year. They are reportedly the only ESPN talent being released at this time, but more decisions could be made before the end of September.
Griffin, who had two years left on his contract, joined ESPN in 2021 to work on its college football and NFL coverage. He had recently been replaced on "Monday Night Countdown" after the network hired the newly retired Jason Kelce.
Griffin addressed his dismissal on X on Thursday night, saying he was thankful for many people who helped him during his time at ESPN.
From the broadcast booth to the studio and ESPECIALLY the people many of you never see behind the camera.
They are the REAL MVPs and sacrifice so much time with their families just to ensure people like myself in front of the camera even have the opportunity to shine.
There were so many awesome experiences and moments that my family and I will never forget from the last 3 years.
What people sometimes fail to realize is none of this is possible without you guys, the FANS. So THANK YOU to everyone who has supported my family through my playing days and broadcast career so far.
We love you guys and will continue to seek and defend the truth while telling athletes’ stories the right way.
...
When one door closes, another one opens. Trust God on your journey.
According to Marchand, Griffin was seen as a candidate to be let go after his stock had diminished at ESPN. The network will pay out the remainder of his salary.
Ponder was hired by ESPN in 2011, working as a reporter for college football and basketball broadcasts, as well as the Longhorn Network. She took over as host of "NFL Countdown" in 2017.
