Popular ESPN host Molly Qerim stunned fans on Monday with an emotional Instagram story announcing that she will leave the network after more than two decades. She expressed gratitude for the opportunities that shaped her journey from a young reporter to the trusted moderator of First Take, where she became one of the most recognizable faces in sports broadcasting. The news sent ripples across the industry, as many expected the 41-year-old to remain until the end of 2025, but her decision to step away sooner leaves ESPN facing the challenge of finding a successor who can match her presence and steady command on air.

The ‘First Take’ host’s contract with ESPN was about to expire at the end of this year, which made many assume that she’d still host her final few episodes before saying goodbye. However, her co-host and long-time NBA analyst, Stephen A. Smith, has now confirmed that Molly has left the company with immediate effect. It’s safe to say that no one was expecting this today, but Smith opened the show by addressing this situation, as he took a moment to bid farewell to Qerim.

“Good morning. You’re welcome to First Take. Normally, our friend Molly Qerim would greet you,” Stephen A. Smith began, his tone carrying the weight of the news. “However, Molly announced last night she will be departing from ESPN.” Smith didn’t just read the announcement but honored her decade-long impact. “She’s hosted First Take for 10 years and elevated the show with her grace, her expertise, and incomparable kindness,” he said, emphasizing how Qerim’s presence defined the program’s rhythm and credibility. He went further, highlighting the consistency she brought to one of ESPN’s most unpredictable stages.

“She’s been an enormous part of our success for a decade. Not only did she keep me and many others aligned, she did it with dignity and class and kindness, to say the least.” But we have all seen how good their on-screen friendship and banter was. For Smith, the loss was also personal. “We’ll miss her and wish her every blessing in her future. I personally am grateful to her for her friendship, and I will miss spending every weekday morning with her right by my side.”

This emotional and heartfelt farewell message from Stephen A. Smith speaks volumes about Molly Qerim’s character in the broadcasting world. The now-former ESPN host joined the network back in 2006 and started her journey as a college football and fantasy draft program host. Then, she later worked her way up and got the offer to host ‘First Take’ in 2015, which has since then become an iconic sports program followed by millions. Over the years, Qerim’s knowledge and calmness have helped her amass a massive fan following, as all of them now await her next move.

However, it’s not just Molly Qerim who has to decide her future, as ESPN is now also left with the tedious task of replacing her. So, who are the potential hosts who could replace the iconic Qerim?

Who will be Molly Qerim’s replacement on ESPN?

With Stephen A. Smith confirming that Molly Qerim has left ESPN, it’s safe to say everyone is curious to know who the potential names are in the race for the spot the 41-year-old has left open. While it’s safe to say that it will take some time before everyone gets used to Qerim’s absence, it’s something that ESPN will have to figure out sooner or later, as the new NBA season is just around the corner. So, who could be Molly Qerim’s replacement?

Courtney Cronin: The 35-year-old is already a part of the ESPN network and has been covering the NFL space, especially the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears, for a while now. While this should be enough to put her in the race, what makes her position so strong is the fact that Cronin has already appeared on ‘First Take’ several times before as the guest host and also a fill-in host for Qerim. So, it’s safe to say that she’ll definitely be a name to keep an eye on.

Peter Schrager: He is another name whom ESPN could consider. Although the 43-year-old NFL expert only recently joined the network, he’s quickly become a fan favorite with his valuable insights and communication ability. Moreover, just like Cronin, Schrager has also previously appeared on ‘First Take’. In fact, he served as a fill-in host earlier this year, and the fans seemed to love him, which should make him another great candidate for the job.

Jon Taylor: Last but not least, Taylor, who joined ESPN after leaving Fox Sports, could also be right where she belongs by hosting ‘First Take’. Although she doesn’t have previous experience on the show, Taylor is a seasoned veteran in the media world and brings a lot to the table, so there’s no doubt that she could be a great replacement for Molly Qerim, given her sports media pedigree and fit right alongside Stephen A. Smith as well.

These are just some of the many names in the mix to replace Molly Qerim, as ESPN continues its hunt for its next ‘First Take’ host. Will it be one of these three, or will it be someone else? We can only wait and watch as the network decides its next step.