Former NFL Star Steve Smith Sr. Joins ESPN Studio Programming

Following recent layoffs at ESPN due to a merger with NFL Network, the network is filling positions previously held by Cam Newton and Karl Ravech, among others. Steve Smith Sr., a former Carolina Panthers teammate of Cam Newton, is expected to take on a significant role.

According to Ryan Glasspiegel of Front Office Sports, Smith will participate in ESPN studio programming, contributing to shows such as Get Up, First Take, and NFL Live.

Smith, known for his dynamic playing style, also represented the Baltimore Ravens before retiring after the 2016 season. He then joined the NFL Network, as reported by Sam Neumann of Awful Announcing.

In addition to his new role at ESPN, Smith hosts a podcast titled The 89 Show, named after his jersey number. He teams up with NFL Network insider James Palmer, and together they examine the intricacies of the wide receiver position. Smith offers insights from his career experience, while Palmer provides analysis based on front-office and coaching sources.

Smith has gained attention for his outspoken nature and past criticisms of players like Jerry Jeudy, a wide receiver formerly with the Denver Broncos. Smith described Jeudy as “just a guy,” implying the team would eventually move on from him. Despite attempts to apologize, Jeudy remains unreceptive to Smith’s criticism.

Smith publicly addressed Jeudy on NFL Network, expressing regret over his comments. “I’m sorry I said you were a JAG, just a guy, who’s an average wide receiver,” Smith stated, urging Jeudy to showcase his abilities during games.

Known as Agent 89, Smith also had notable confrontations with Cam Newton. However, the two have since reconciled, resolving their differences in a special episode of The 89 Show.