ESPN has parted ways with NFL analyst Ryan Clark, a veteran of the network for 10 years, as the company begins a round of expected layoffs. The departure comes just ahead of ESPN's first-ever broadcast of the Super Bowl.
Clark, who had a 13-year career in the NFL before transitioning to broadcasting, was slated to be a significant part of the network's Super Bowl coverage. He had also served on "Monday Night Countdown" for three seasons.
According to reports, ESPN executives reportedly grew dissatisfied with Clark's commentary, citing issues stemming from an on-air exchange with colleague Peter Schrager. During a discussion on the "Get Up" program about the Cowboys' season-opening game, Clark made a comment to Schrager, referring to a former player's perspective as "the non-player in you." Schrager responded by telling Clark not to belittle him and that he could offer an alternate viewpoint. The confrontation reportedly continued after the show concluded.
The number of employees impacted by this initial round of layoffs and the identities of any other affected individuals have not yet been specified.