Just like in any field, people get hired as well as fired. That is the nature of it. Sometimes the reason for the firing is justified based on data as well as on pure intuition. But when ESPN decided to fire NFL broadcasters Robert Griffin III and Sam Ponder, the sporting world started asking questions.
Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele who left the network in unfavorable circumstances spoke up about the issue. She took to her official X and Instagram accounts to talk about the firing. She started by thanking her for being beside Steele during their time together at the network.
She's an incredible talent. Sam already knows that this is such a blessing that God is bestowing upon her because there’s so much more for her to do. This is another loss for ESPN, but it is a gain for literally the rest of the world because now you’re going to see the true Sam Ponder. It’s all going to come out, and I hope you’re ready. She is a gem.Sage Steele said
Steele’s words suggest that Ponder was fired not for the reasons ESPN publicly made. Instead, there is a deeper flaw in the system. What she means by this is the same reason Sage Steele departed the company. Steele had made some remarks about the COVID-19 vaccine mandate and transgender athletes. She did apologize publicly and continued her job, but later sued ESPN for degrading her career.
Steele indicated that the reasons for Sam Ponder‘s firing could be based on the same reasons, that the network was not happy with her criticizing transgender inclusion in women’s sports. This means they didn’t fire her simply as a cover for Robert Griffin III’s dismissal.
Sam Ponder and Robert Griffin III’s firing shows ESPN’s taking new direction with NFL broadcast
Both were raking in seven-figure sums annually. However, according to the network, were not working much to justify that salary. Sam Ponder was the host of Sunday NFL Countdown, whereas Robert Griffin III was a prime contributor to their Monday Night Football broadcast.
However, the recent hiring of just-retired Jason Kelce moved Griffin III out of that role. Now with a much more reduced role compared to the All-Pro Super Bowl champion, the network probably found no sense in continuing to pay him. That is if one disregards his arguments with network veteran Paul Finebaum. However, it goes to show that the network is shaking up its NFL broadcasting teams.
It seems Tom Brady signing with Fox has had an impact on this decision. It might have forced ESPN to rethink the way it was handling its broadcast. Griffin III’s firing might have a realistic reason after all, but Sage Steele’s comments in the Sam Ponder context will make a lot of people ponder.
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