ESPN layoffs are continuing, and this time Neil Everett will be leaving the network after a 23-year run.
“Bartender…last call,” Everett said in a statement to Front Office Sports. “ESPN changed my life, but now it’s time for me to change my life,” he said in a statement to FOS. “Time to write a new chapter.”
The 61-year old has co-hosted the late edition of Sports Center from Los Angeles with Stan Verrett since 2009.
Verrett tweeted Thursday evening: I started at espn in 2000, a few months after Neil Everett. We joined up for sportscenter from LA in 2009. For 14 years, he was the best teammate I could imagine. Selfless, caring, generous, and a pro’s pro. He’s moving on now, but we are brothers for life. That’ll never change.
Andrew Marchand of the New York Post reported earlier this week that ESPN would soon be starting its next round of talent layoffs.
According to Marchand, the network will be looking to cut talent with higher salaries. In particular, he mentions NFL reporters Suzy Kolber and Steve Young being at risk because of their high salaries and reduced time on air.
The first wave of cuts took place in late April. Back in March, Disney CEO Bob Iger said that 7,000 jobs would be eliminated across the board. They are looking to cut $5.5 billion in costs worldwide.
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Amid the layoffs, ESPN has signed a five-year deal with Pat McAfee for “The Pat McAfee Show.” McAfee has done work with ESPN previously, serving as an analyst on “College GameDay” and occasionally working as a sideline reporter for its college football coverage.
The network also re-signed Marcus Spears to a four-year, multi-million dollar deal.
Front Office Sports reported earlier this week that Chris Chelios will not return as an analyst next NHL season.
Bridget Hyland may be reached at bhyland@njadvancemedia.com.
