ESPN shocked many around the NFL and college football worlds with its Decision fire Robert Griffin III on Thursday. The former Heisman Trophy winner together with NFL-Countdown host Sam Ponderwere released into what The athletics Andrew Marchand reported budget-related changes.
Griffin has become a staple of ESPN’s college football coverage in recent years, talking about Ball Stand up and comment on games Bob WischusenThis sometimes brought him into segments with SEC Network’s Paul Finebaumwho reacted to Griffin’s departure on Friday.
caller Colin called to The Paul Finebaum Show and asked about Griffin’s departure and said he was a fan of the former Baylor Analysis of the Star. Finebaum responded that he, like many others, was surprised to hear of Griffin’s firing.
“That was reported (on Thursday),” Finebaum said of Terrible announcement“I don’t think the company confirmed it. But it was a big surprise to almost everyone.”
Finebaum later elaborated, praising Griffin and his contributions to the desk and the booth, but added that he didn’t know much about the circumstances surrounding ESPN’s decision.
“Everyone always thinks that people who sit in those chairs never want to say anything about it,” Finebaum said. “I mean, I have strong opinions about a lot of people I work with. And some of them could blow your mind. The point is, I haven’t the slightest idea. If I had any insight, I’d be happy to share it with you.
“I know him – I know him pretty well. And he was completely different from most of these run-of-the-mill analysts.”
In addition to his coverage of college football, Griffin spent time in Monday evening countdown Panel. However, ESPN pulled him out countdown this year after the hiring Jason Kelceand the network cut ties on Thursday. Griffin’s contract had two years left, according to The athlete.
Griffin won a Heisman Trophy during his illustrious career at Baylor from 2008-11 and spent time with Washington, the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens during his injury-marred NFL career. Then he ventured into the media world, and ESPN wasn’t his only admirer.
The athlete reported that FOX Sports also expressed interest and even considered replacing Griffin Reggie Bush To Great lunchtime kick-off last year. However, the network decided to discontinue Mark Ingramand Griffin moved to Wischusen’s broadcast team after a restructuring. He was chosen for second place alongside Sean McDonough which ultimately leads to Greg McElroy, The athlete reported.
After the news of his dismissal became known, replied with a clip from the movie Friday on social media. Then shared a heartfelt statement and expressed his gratitude for his time at ESPN.
“I’m thankful for so many people who have helped me grow during my time at ESPN because they are some of the best in the business,” Griffin wrote on X. “From the announcer’s booth to the studio and MOST IMPORTANTLY the people many of you never see behind the camera. They are the TRUE MVPs and sacrifice so much time with their families just to make sure people like me even have the opportunity to shine in front of the camera. There have been so many great experiences and moments from the last three years that my family and I will never forget.”
“What people sometimes don’t realize is that none of this would be possible without you, the FANS. So THANK YOU to everyone who has supported my family throughout my playing days and my commentating career so far. We love you and will continue to seek and defend the truth while telling athletes’ stories the right way.”
