ESPN fires NFL Sunday Countdown host Sam Ponder and Analyst Robert Griffin III

ESPN has parted ways with Samantha Ponder and Robert Griffin III, marking a significant shake-up in the network’s NFL coverage.

Ponder, who was the anchor for “Sunday NFL Countdown,” and Griffin, an analyst known for his appearances on multiple ESPN shows, were both let go on Thursday, August 15 2024.

While Ponder has not yet commented on her departure, Griffin took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to humorously reference his firing with a clip from the movie Friday.

The decision to remove Ponder from her role has sparked significant backlash on social media, with notable figures like Riley Gaines, host of OutKick’s “Gaines for Girls” podcast, and former ESPN anchor Sage Steele coming to her defense.

Ponder has been a vocal advocate for fairness in women’s sports, particularly in the context of the ongoing debate over transgender inclusion, and she recently defended Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker for his faith-based commencement speech at Benedictine College.

A source familiar with the situation told Fox News Digital that the firings were strictly business decisions. Griffin, who was replaced on “Monday Night Countdown” by former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, will continue to receive his full salary for his role on a less prominent college football show.

Ponder’s departure leaves her without any remaining shows at ESPN, despite her long tenure with the network.

Ponder joined ESPN in 2011 as part of the Longhorn Network before rising to prominence as the host of “Sunday NFL Countdown.”

Griffin, who joined ESPN in August 2022 after a career in the NFL, had been serving as an analyst on “NFL Live” and other football-related programming, including “Monday Night Countdown.”

Despite the firings, both Ponder and Griffin are expected to receive the full compensation owed to them under their contracts.