Stephen A. Smith, a prominent ESPN personality, has voiced his strong disapproval of the network's decision to fire NFL analyst Ryan Clark. Clark was let go on Monday during a break in ESPN's "NFL Live" as part of a broader wave of layoffs. Smith stated on his YouTube channel that he is "not happy about this decision one bit" and considers Clark "arguably the best NFL analyst in America."
Smith, who frequently collaborated with Clark on ESPN's "First Take," described the situation as deeply hurtful. He confirmed that ESPN executives consulted him about Clark's impending termination, and he communicated his desire for Clark to remain with the network. However, Smith acknowledged that "fiscal and financial circumstances" were beyond his influence.
He also addressed public speculation surrounding Clark's exit, expressing frustration with misinformation. "Damn near got blisters on my tongue and my fingers from biting my tongue and biting my fingers from refraining from going after folks when I saw how people were talking about him," Smith said, emphasizing that those individuals do not know Clark personally.
While Smith indicated he would not disparage his employer, he issued a warning to his colleagues at ESPN. He suggested that further layoffs are imminent, both on Tuesday and in the future. Smith drew a parallel to his own experience, recalling his previous termination from ESPN in 2009, and implied he could also be a target.
Clark was among several notable figures released by ESPN on Monday, including Cam Newton, Karl Ravech, Bart Scott, and Tom Pelissero. Clark himself posted on X, formerly Twitter, sending "prayers and love to all those laid off today by ESPN." He expressed hope that as one door closes, another will open for his former colleagues.