free html hit counter Dan Orlovsky makes final decision over ESPN future after hinting on First Take he would quit network – My Blog

Dan Orlovsky makes final decision over ESPN future after hinting on First Take he would quit network

DAN Orlovsky has made a final decision concerning his future at ESPN.

The First Take and NFL Live star had hinted that his future was up in the air with ESPN earlier this year.

Dan Orlovsky, ESPN commentator, at an NFL game.
Getty

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky seen before an NFL game in 2024[/caption]

Dan Orlovsky on First Take discussing Stephen Curry's Olympic performance.
ESPN

Orlovsky has worked as an NFL analyst for ESPN since 2018 and appears on First Take and Get Up, among other shows[/caption]

Orlovsky’s future was uncertain, as he was linked with the rival CBS.

But the 39-year-old NFL analyst has reportedly closed in on a new deal with ESPN to avoid free agency.

Orlovsky is “at the 1-yard line” on signing a long-term contract extension with ESPN, according to Front Office Sports.

FOS also said that Orlovsky’s new contract “is not yet final, but sources say the two sides have agreed to terms.”

The report added that Orlovsky’s new deal will allow him to continue appearing on NFL Live, First Take, SportsCenter, and Get Up.

And the former NFL quarterback will also continue to work as a game analyst for Monday Night Football’s No. 2 team, which includes Chris Fowler, Louis Riddick, and Laura Rutledge.

Back in January, Orlovsky signed off from First Take with a goodbye as his contract was set to expire this summer.

“You guys know this is the end of the season for me, certainly for [Ryan Clark] as well,” Orlovsky said.

“I’m taking a break, won’t be on TV for a long time. Just want to say thank you to you guys – Stephen A, Molly [Qerim], Shannon [Sharpe] for a great season.’

“Love being with you guys, love y’all.


“Never know what the future holds but I’m taking a break, I’m sure RC is as well. Just want to say thank you.

“Appreciate you guys so much.”

One month later, Orlovsky was back on ESPN.

He worked on First Take and Get Up, and has continued to ever since.

Before the July 4 weekend, Orlovsky posted a picture toasting himself on X and on his Instagram story, writing, “Here’s to what’s next.”

First Take viewing figures

First Take went from strength to strength under the guidance of Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim last year.

The weekday ESPN debate show averaged 496,000 viewers in 2023 – making it the most-watched year in program history.

Its December average of 611,000 was a 24% year-on-year increase compared to 2022.

The show also reported more than 250 million views on YouTube.

First Take was helped by the addition of Shannon Sharpe alongside Smith and Qerim after he left Fox Sports’ Undisputed.

ESPN has locked up one of the top football analysts with the 2025 NFL season approaching.

Orlovsky joined ESPN in 2018 after a football career.

He has been one of the faces of ESPN’s football programming and is known for breaking down game film.

Orlovsky has also appeared on programs like The Pat McAfee Show.

About admin