Stephen A. Smith is set to remain a key figure at ESPN after signing a five-year contract extension with the network.
After nearly a year of negotiations, ESPN announced the deal on Friday, though financial terms were not disclosed. However, a source told The Associated Press that the contract is worth at least $100 million. Smith’s previous deal was set to expire in July.
“I’m happy that I’m going to be here for a lengthy period of time. I’m really happy. I’m happy that it’s done,” Smith said on First Take Friday morning.
The extension cements Smith as ESPN’s highest-paid talent, though he remains behind Fox Sports’ Tom Brady, who earns $37.5 million annually. Smith will continue as the leading personality and executive producer of First Take, which has dominated morning sports television since he joined in 2012.
Beyond First Take, Smith will have an expanded role in ESPN’s NFL programming, including a regular presence on Monday Night Countdown, while maintaining some involvement in NBA coverage. The new contract also allows him to pursue projects outside of sports through his Mr. SAS Productions company.
Smith’s outspoken personality has also sparked political speculation, with some even considering him as a potential Democratic candidate for the 2028 presidential race. When asked about it on The Tonight Show, he responded playfully, “I don’t want to do this… but I approve this message.”
Meanwhile, Smith made headlines courtside at the Lakers-Knicks game in Los Angeles on Thursday. LeBron James confronted him over comments Smith made about Bronny James’ NBA future, saying the young player was only in the league because of his father. Smith addressed the incident on First Take, stating, “I don’t blame LeBron for being upset. That wasn’t a superstar confronting me—it was a dad.”
