### Stephen A. Smith's $100 Million ESPN Deal: A Game-Changer in Sports Broadcasting Stephen A. Smith, a prominent figure in sports media, has secured a groundbreaking five-year contract extension with ESPN worth at least $100 million. This deal, which significantly raises his annual salary from $12 million to $20 million, solidifies his status as one of the highest-paid personalities in sports broadcasting. Smith has been a staple at ESPN for over two decades, particularly known for his role on the show "First Take," where he has become a leading voice in sports commentary. The new contract not only ensures his presence on ESPN but also allows him to explore more political commentary, reflecting his growing interest in political discourse alongside sports analysis. Notably, Smith credits his success and this lucrative deal to the influence of fellow commentator Skip Bayless, highlighting the competitive nature of sports media and the importance of strong on-air partnerships [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/othersports/article-14486987/Stephen-Smith-ESPN-deal-Skip-Bayless-Take.html]. ### Breakdown of the Contract and Its Implications 1. **Contract Details**: - Smith's new deal is a five-year extension worth at least $100 million, averaging $20 million annually [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/stephen-a-smith-signs-new-100-million-espn-deal-report/articleshow/118793924.cms]. - This contract marks a significant increase from his previous salary of $12 million per year [https://www.baltimoresun.com/2025/03/07/stephen-a-smith-espn-100-million]. 2. **Role Changes**: - While Smith will continue to host "First Take," he will scale back his appearances on other ESPN shows, particularly "NBA Countdown" [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/stephen_a_smiths_new_espn_contract_includes_notable_change/s1_127_41864019]. - The deal allows him more flexibility to engage in political commentary, which he has expressed interest in pursuing more actively [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6181819/2025/03/06/stephen-a-smith-contract-espn-first-take]. 3. **Impact on ESPN and Broadcasting Landscape**: - This contract bucks the trend of pay cuts across cable networks, indicating ESPN's commitment to retaining top talent [https://www.wsj.com/business/media/espn-cements-stephen-a-smiths-star-status-with-100-million-plus-contract-e526de03]. - Smith's deal positions him among the highest earners in sports broadcasting, trailing only behind legends like Tom Brady and Charles Barkley [https://www.yardbarker.com/general_sports/articles/stephen_a_smith_gets_100_million_deal_from_espn/s1_127_41864412]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Salary Comparison**: - Previous Salary: $12 million/year - New Salary: $20 million/year (66.67% increase) - **Contract Duration**: - Five years, extending Smith's tenure at ESPN through 2030 [https://www.thewrap.com/stephen-a-smith-espn-5-year-contract-first-take]. - **Role Adjustments**: - Continued presence on "First Take" - Reduced frequency on "NBA Countdown" and other ESPN programming [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/smith-espn-agree-5-extension-155659447.html]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Smith and ESPN In summary, **Stephen A. Smith's new $100 million contract with ESPN not only elevates his financial standing but also reflects a strategic shift in his role within the network**. The deal allows him to focus on his strengths in sports commentary while also pursuing his interests in political discourse. This move is indicative of ESPN's strategy to retain top talent amidst a changing media landscape, ensuring that Smith remains a central figure in sports broadcasting for years to come. 1. **Contract Value**: $100 million over five years. 2. **Salary Increase**: From $12 million to $20 million annually. 3. **Role Focus**: Primarily on "First Take" with reduced responsibilities elsewhere. 4. **Political Commentary**: More opportunities to engage in political discussions. This comprehensive overview highlights the significance of Smith's contract in the context of sports media and his evolving role as a commentator [https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/03/07/stephen-smith-espn-contract].