It’s been a while since Skip Bayless was in the news. Since parting ways with FS1, he has kept a relatively low profile outside of his posts on X. Now, the controversial sports personality is poised to make his return.
Following his brief hiatus, Bayless will return to another debate show, where it appears he’ll reprise much of the same schtick he used on “First Take” and “Undisputed.” Only this time, his co-host will be a former NBA star.
Skip Bayless Will Join Gilbert Arenas for New Football Show
With the NFL season about to start, The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand reported that Bayless will be on a new show with former NBA star Gilbert Arenas.
“I’m not exaggerating to you,” Bayless told Marchand. “I’m telling you, the God’s truth, I’m more on fire for this than I have ever been.”
Marchand added more details on the show’s cast.
“The show will be produced and owned by Underdog, who host Arenas’ current basketball program, Gil’s Arena, that has gained popularity in the digital world. ‘The Arena: Gridiron’ will feature Bayless, former NFL cornerback Aqib Talib, and former NFL coach Jay Gruden.
“Arenas will also appear on the football program, while Gerald McCoy and Cody Kessler will be guests. Social media influencer Kinsey Wolanski will serve as the host on the show, which begins next Tuesday and will air three times per week.”
Bayless then explained to Marchand why he’s excited about what’s to come.
“I’m back in the saddle in the debate arena,” Bayless said. “I live for this. I love this. And I’m not one who curses, but they actually worked me into such a frenzy in the rehearsals that I came close to uttering my first F-bomb.”
JUST IN: Skip Bayless is joining Gilbert Arenas for a new football show, Bayless told The Athletic’s @AndrewMarchand.
The show will be produced and owned by Underdog and will feature Bayless, Aqib Talib and Jay Gruden.
Details:https://t.co/l8erD4ZwwW pic.twitter.com/fjTzJXSwgk
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 27, 2025
Plenty of controversial figures are involved in the show, and that doesn’t start or end with Bayless. Arenas, who infamously brought guns into the Washington Wizards’ locker room, was recently indicted for running an underground gambling operation.
Gruden also remains a polarizing figure. An email investigation revealed he used offensive language, costing him his job with the then-Oakland Raiders.
Bayless and company know how to perform on camera, and whether the quality of the show holds up, they will attract viewers.
