ESPN Layoffs: Ravech, Cam Newton & Ryan Clark

Karl Ravech, Cam Newton, Ryan Clark and Tom Pelissero part of ESPN layoffs, per reports https://share.google/f00GoLSbn7aHckipl

Karl Ravech, one of ESPN’s most prominent on-air voices for more than three decades, and NFL insider Tom Pelissero were laid off as part of the network’s latest round of cuts Tuesday, according to sources briefed on the moves.

The layoffs are the first since ESPN finalized its acquisition of NFL Network in January, and most of the dismissals were expected to take place at NFL Network with a large contingent behind the scenes, according to the sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive matter. ESPN purchased NFL Network as part of a series of agreements that gave the league a 10 percent stake in the network. ESPN has spent the past six months sorting out how to make all the pieces from its bases in Bristol and New York coordinate with NFL Network’s Los Angeles operation.

The 61-year-old Ravech has also called college basketball and anchored SportsCenter during his tenure with ESPN. According to The Athletic, Ravech had not been told of his impending job status when contacted by the website.

Ravech is just one of those laid off, as NFL analyst Ryan Clark was also sent packing in an ongoing announcement of terminations that impacted various on-air personalities. Clark, a former NFL safety, also worked on Monday, July 20, during an appearance for "NFL Live" and was told midway through the broadcast that his services were no longer needed.

Cam Newton not returning to ESPN

Cam Newton, the former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL MVP, won't be returning to the debate show "First Take." The news, first reported by Outkick, ends Newton's two-year stint with the network after he replaced Shannon Sharpe as Stephen A. Smith's primary debate partner several times a week.