Retired NFL standout Roddy White suggests Ryan Clark's outspokenness may have played role in ESPN exit

Dan Dakich gives his reaction to Ryan Clark being laid off by ESPN on Monday while he was live on air.

ESPN’s latest round of layoffs last week included former NFL players-turned-TV analysts Ryan Clark and Cam Newton, as well as reporter Tom Pelissero, who had joined the company from NFL Network. Clark’s exit drew particular attention after more than a decade with the network.

The moves come as ESPN prepares for one of its most significant NFL coverage seasons yet, a run that will culminate with the network’s first Super Bowl broadcast.

Front Office Sports reported that former All-Pro wide receiver Steve Smith is expected to have an expanded role on ESPN studio programming. ESPN confirmed Monday that Jason McCourty will join "Monday Night Countdown," appearing to step into the opening created by Ryan Clark’s layoff. McCourty joined ESPN in 2024 and is now exclusive to the network after leaving his CBS game analyst role earlier this year.

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Ryan Clark of ESPN's "Monday Night Football Countdown" before the NFC Wild Card Playoff game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium on Jan. 13, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona. (Ric Tapia/Getty Images)

Former NFL wide receiver Roddy White is among the latest sports figures to weigh in. White, who faced Clark during their playing careers, said Clark’s abrupt ESPN exit stood out because of how highly he regarded the former analyst’s work.

"I think Ryan Clark is exceptional at his job," White told Hard Rock Bet. "It's unfortunate that he got released by ESPN because he is so good at what he does. Usually, guys who are that good don't lose their jobs."

White also pointed to Clark’s outspokenness on issues