For Molly Qerim, hosting ESPN’s First Take was more than just a job—it was a dream fulfilled. Back in 2017, she described the role perfectly: “You’re talking about things you’d be talking about anyway in your free time. We’re all big sports fans.” After first joining the network in 2006, Qerim steadily rose through the ranks, becoming one of ESPN’s most recognizable faces alongside names like Stephen A. Smith and Malika Andrews. Her presence at the desk became synonymous with First Take, and earlier this year, ESPN showed its confidence in her by offering a new contract.

But according to the latest reports, Qerim has chosen a different path. A few hours ago, news broke that she is leaving both First Take and ESPN altogether. Shortly after, Qerim confirmed the development herself with a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday night. Calling hosting First Take “one of the greatest honors of my career,” she thanked her ESPN family for giving her “lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special.”

What she didn’t share, however, was the reason behind her exit. All Qerim revealed was that “after much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.” She ended her statement with a small tease of what’s next, writing “Stay tuned” in her Instagram Story—a hint that her next professional move may already be in the works.

Sports Business Journal reporter Ausin Karp claims Qerim will leave at the end of 2025. In July, it was revealed that Qerim would take a short break from First Take “to be with family”, but was set to return before the NFL and NBA seasons later this year. With ESPN reportedly making a new top-level studio in Manhattan, and First Take continuing to get viewers’ attention, Marca predicted that “Qerim’s role, financially and passionately are sure to rise more”.

According to her website, Molly Qerim started working for ESPN in 2006 in the network’s digital and mobile departments. Her work on Fantasy Football Now even earned her an Emmy. She left the network 4 years after initially joining it. However, in an interview with UConn Magazine, she always knew she wanted to return. After a brief stint with both CBS Sports Network and NFL Network, she returned to ESPN in 2015 as the host of First Take. Qerim was brought in as a fill-in to replace Cari Champion since the latter was promoted to ESPN’s flagship SportsCenter show. That ‘fill-in’ role soon became a full-time gig, which continued for a decade.

‘FJA’ described “watching First Take without Molly is like going to brunch and finding out the pancakes are now kale wraps. Sure, you’ll get used to it, but it won’t quite feel right.” With the official decision, ESPN must search for the 41-year-old’s replacement.

Will Evan Cohen replace Molly Qerim?

As ‘Athlon Sports’ highlighted, Molly Qerim’s departure means ESPN will need to find a new face to sit alongside her renowned co-host, Stephen A. Smith, who recently signed a long-term extension with the network and isn’t looking to go anywhere. While Smith has been described as the face of ‘First Take’ and several of the debates on the show, it was also highlighted that “his co-host’s presence helped balance the high-energy exchanges that made “First Take” one of ESPN’s most-watched programs.”

In July, after Molly Qerim announced that she would be going on a Summer Break, Evan Cohen was her replacement on ESPN’s First Take. Cohen is a co-host of ESPN Radio’s ‘UnSportsmanLike’ daily program, alongside Michelle Smallmon and Chris Canty. Cohen has also served as the host of the SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio morning show since 2011.

Qerim’s role wasn’t well-received by fans. According to reports from ‘Yahoo! Sports’s Andrew Holleran, netizens began dropping criticism of Evan Cohen by writing remarks like “The host on First Take today is worse than Molly”, and “I used to watch First Take…the show has become a clown show. Talking about the Lakers and Cowboys too much causes people like me to look elsewhere”. Therefore, amid such comments, it is hard to know whether ESPN would give a chance to consider Evan Cohen again for the top role.

With Molly Qerim telling her viewers to “Stay Tuned”, it remains to be seen how long that waiting period will be.