Shannon Sharpe Departs ESPN Following Lawsuit Resolution

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Former NFL (National Football League) star and television analyst Shannon Sharpe will not be returning to ESPN following the quiet settlement of a high-profile sexual misconduct case, according to sources cited by NBC News. This development concludes a months-long controversy that has affected the Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee’s broadcasting career. Though no criminal charges were pursued, the civil litigation has had significant professional repercussions for the former Denver Broncos tight end.

Sharpe, aged 56, voluntarily stepped back from his role at ESPN in April 2025 after being sued by a woman who accused him of sexual assault on three separate occasions, twice in Las Vegas in October 2023 and once again in January 2024. The case, filed in Nevada, sparked widespread attention given Sharpe’s public profile and long-standing presence on American sports television. A representative for ESPN declined to comment on his employment status, but insiders confirm he will not return for the upcoming NFL season.

The case was resolved earlier this month through a private settlement. The woman’s legal representative, Tony Buzbee, issued a public statement on 18 July confirming the conclusion of the matter. “Both sides acknowledge a long-term consensual and tumultuous relationship,” Buzbee said. “After protracted and respectful negotiations, I’m pleased to announce that we have reached a mutually agreed upon resolution. All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed.”

Sharpe’s defence team had previously characterised the lawsuit as an unfounded attack on his character. Lanny Davis, his attorney, labelled the claims “filled with lies, distortions, and misrepresentations,” describing the suit as a “transparent attempt at blackmail.” Sharpe himself made limited public comment, though he initially expressed confidence that he would return to the airwaves in time for the 2025 NFL season.

Sharpe, who carved out a distinguished 14-year playing career before transitioning into broadcasting, had become a prominent voice on American sports television. His recent departure from FS1’s Undisputed and subsequent move to ESPN marked a high-profile chapter in his post-playing career.

The first NFL exhibition match of the season is scheduled for 1 August, when the Los Angeles Chargers face the Detroit Lions in Canton, Ohio. The regular season begins on 4 September with a much-anticipated clash between the Dallas Cowboys and defending Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. For now, Shannon Sharpe will not be returning.