Shannon Sharpe, the former NFL star, has made a significant name for himself in sports broadcasting.
In this article, we’ll discuss his new ESPN contract, the remarkable increase in “First Take” viewership since his arrival, his net worth, career stats, and family background.
Shannon Sharpe’s ESPN Deal: Key Highlights
- 4-Year, $20M Contract: Sharpe secures a major role on First Take with expanded opportunities across ESPN.
- Record Ratings: His presence boosted First Take viewership by 18%, outpacing Undisputed.
- $14M Net Worth: Sharpe’s wealth grows through ESPN, endorsements, and his podcast Club Shay Shay.
Shannon Sharpe’s ESPN Contract Breakdown
Shannon Sharpe’s new multi-year contract with ESPN, announced on June 11, 2024, is big news.
This deal locks him in for four years, making it clear that ESPN values what he brings to the table.
After starting on a short-term agreement in August 2023, Sharpe’s role on First Take, where he debates alongside Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim, has really taken off.
With this new contract, Sharpe isn’t just sticking to First Take; he’s expected to show up on other ESPN programs as well.
While we don’t know the full details of those appearances yet, it’s obvious ESPN is investing heavily in him.
The show has already benefited from his presence, setting records in ratings and maintaining a streak of 22 consecutive months of year-over-year growth.
Sharpe’s gratitude shines through as he’s shared how much Stephen A. Smith helped him transition to ESPN during a rough patch in his career.
As Sharpe said, “Being a part of this family has been a blessing… I look forward to expanding my role.”
How Much is Shannon Sharpe’s ESPN Contract Worth?
We can’t overlook the hefty price tag attached to Sharpe’s new ESPN deal, which is reportedly worth up to $20 million per year.
That’s a serious paycheck for someone who’s making waves not only on First Take but potentially across other ESPN platforms too.
This contract comes after his high-profile departure from FS1’s Undisputed, where things got heated between him and Skip Bayless, leading to his exit in June 2023.
Sharpe’s move to ESPN has been nothing short of a success, helping push First Take to new heights in terms of ratings and viewership.
Shannon Sharpe’s Impact on First Take’s Viewership
Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
Since Sharpe joined First Take in September 2023, the show has experienced a huge jump in viewership:
- Record-breaking episodes: Just six weeks after Sharpe’s debut, First Take had one of its most-watched episodes of the year, pulling in 852,000 viewers.
- 14-month growth streak: The show saw a consistent 18% increase in viewership during September 2023 compared to the previous year.
- Blowing away the competition: Sharpe’s presence has made First Take dominant over FS1’s Undisputed, with First Take averaging 726,000 viewers compared to just 162,000 for Undisputed.
Sharpe and Stephen A. Smith’s chemistry is a big part of this success.
The way they play off each other keeps us hooked, with Smith often taking shots at the Cowboys while Sharpe balances things out.
“Shannon’s chemistry with Stephen A. Smith has elevated our debates and been another key reason ‘First Take’ is the premier destination for morning sports discussion,” said David Roberts, ESPN’s Head of Event & Studio Production. (Source: ESPN Press Release)
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Shannon Sharpe’s Net Worth in 2024
Shannon Sharpe’s estimated net worth in 2024 stands at about $14 million.
That number includes both his football earnings and his current work in sports media.
During his NFL career, Sharpe earned around $22.3 million, with his biggest contract being a four-year, $13.8 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens in 2000.
These days, Sharpe’s making around $3 million a year from his job at ESPN.
But that’s not all—he’s also pulling in money from endorsements with brands like Pizza Hut, Reebok, and Pepsi.
His podcast, Club Shay Shay, has added to his earnings too, with popular episodes, like his interview with comedian Katt Williams, going viral and bringing in big bucks.
Plus, he earns from real estate, and a clothing line called “S.H.A.R.P.E.”
“Being a part of this family has been a blessing. I’m excited about expanding my role and showing more of what I have to offer,” said Shannon Sharpe in an interview with ESPN. (Source: ESPN Interview)
What are Shannon Sharpe’s Career Stats?
Shannon Sharpe had an amazing 14-season NFL career. Here are some key stats:
- Games Played: 204
- Receptions: 815 (3rd most by a tight end in NFL history)
- Receiving Yards: 10,060 (3rd most by a tight end)
- Receiving Touchdowns: 62 (7th most by a tight end)
- Yards Per Reception: 12.3
- 1,000+ Yard Seasons: 3
- Pro Bowl Selections: 8 (1992-1998, 2001)
- First-Team All-Pro: 4 times
Sharpe led the NFL in receptions twice (1993, 1996) and set records, like a 96-yard touchdown reception in the 2000 AFC Championship game.
He won three Super Bowl titles (XXXII, XXXIII with the Broncos; XXXV with the Ravens) and was the first tight end to reach 10,000 career receiving yards.
“I always aimed to be the best, and I worked hard every day to achieve that. Setting records and winning championships were just the byproducts of my dedication,” said Shannon Sharpe in an interview with Sports Illustrated. (Source: Sports Illustrated Interview)
Shannon Sharpe’s Personal Life
Who is Shannon Sharpe’s Brother?
Shannon Sharpe’s older brother is Sterling Sharpe.
Sterling played as a wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers from 1988 to 1994.
He had a great career, making five Pro Bowls and leading the NFL in receptions three times.
Unfortunately, a neck injury cut his career short. Shannon often says Sterling was a big influence on him.
Who are Shannon Sharpe’s Family Members?
Shannon Sharpe’s family includes his parents, Pete Sharpe and Mary Alice Dixon, his siblings, Sterling and Sherra Sharpe, and his three children, Kayla, Kiari, and Kaley Sharpe.
Kayla studied pre-law and works in HR. Kiari studied business management and biology and works in finance.
Kaley earned a medical degree from Indiana University.
Where Did Shannon Sharpe Attend College?
Shannon Sharpe went to Savannah State University, where he played football from 1986 to 1989.
He was a three-time All-Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference pick and the SIAC Player of the Year in 1987.
Sharpe was inducted into the Savannah State Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
What is Sharpe’s Ethnicity?
Sharpe is African-American.
He was born in Chicago, Illinois, and he’s proud of his heritage.
He’s been a big figure in sports and broadcasting, often highlighting his background.
What are Sharpe’s Weight and Height?
Sharpe is 6’2″ (1.88 m) tall and weighs 228 lbs (103 kg). His size and strength helped him become one of the best tight ends in NFL history.
To Conclude
Shannon Sharpe’s journey from NFL star to sports analyst shows his talent and hard work.
His new multi-year contract with ESPN, impressive career stats, and impact on “First Take” highlight his legacy.
Sharpe’s story is one of dedication and success.
FAQs:
How old is Shannon Sharpe?
Shannon Sharpe is 55 years old.
How old are Sharpe’s kids?
Sharpe has three children: Kayla and Kiari, both 31, and Kaley, who is 29.
What was Sharpe’s jersey number?
Sharpe wore #81 and #84 with the Broncos and #82 with the Ravens.
How many Super Bowls did Sharpe win?
Sharpe won three Super Bowls: two with the Broncos and one with the Ravens.
