ESPN parting ways with NFL analyst Ryan Clark ahead of network's first Super Bowl broadcast

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ESPN is parting ways with NFL analyst Ryan Clark, multiple sources told OutKick.

Clark is expected to be part of a round of layoffs the network could announce as soon as Tuesday.

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The NFL analyst will be among the highest-paid on-air personalities ESPN cuts, sources said, earning roughly $2 million per year. It is unclear whether Clark’s contract is expiring or whether he is being sidelined with time remaining on his deal.

Ryan Clark is being let go by ESPN after more than 11 years with the network, OutKick has learned. (Ric Tapia/Getty Images)

Clark joined ESPN after retiring from the NFL in 2015 and re-signed with the network in 2021 for three years. In 2024, the two sides had contentious contract negotiations and Clark posted on social media at the time that he felt he "deserved more" and ESPN "disagreed." Ultimately, the two sides agreed to a deal.

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The timing of the decision is particularly notable given Clark's role on ESPN's Monday Night Countdown pregame NFL coverage. The network is set to carry its first Super Bowl on February 14. Sources say ESPN is considering both internal and external candidates to replace Clark on its Super Bowl studio coverage.

ESPN is parting ways with longtime NFL analyst Ryan Clark following an 11-year run at the network. (Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Clark has become an increasingly