Chad Johnson Seeks To Replace Fired Shannon Sharpe At ESPN First Take

ESPN recently parted ways with Shannon Sharpe following his settlement of a $50 million sexual assault lawsuit, creating an opening on the network's popular sports debate show, First Take. Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, Sharpe’s co-host on the Nightcap podcast and former NFL star, has been seen lobbying for the vacant role, making guest appearances and promoting Madden NFL 26 on First Take. Johnson expressed enthusiasm about potentially joining the show full-time for the upcoming NFL season, signaling his readiness to fill Sharpe’s void. While fans have had mixed reactions to the possibility of Johnson replacing Sharpe, ESPN has not confirmed any official replacement yet. Sharpe addressed his firing on Nightcap, requesting ESPN delay the announcement until after his brother Sterling Sharpe's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. Johnson's pursuit of the role and his recent on-air appearances suggest ESPN is considering retaining Sharpe’s audience by bringing Johnson onboard.