A plethora of layoffs from ESPN sends Ryan Clark, Cam Newton, Karl Ravech, and more on their way out. Along with the three aforementioned cuts, ESPN is also reportedly letting go of insider Tom Pelissero.
On social media, there was also chatter around Mina Kimes’ future with ESPN, but one NFL reporter has given clarity to shut down the speculation.
NFL Reporter Claims Mina Kimes Will Remain at ESPN Despite Criticism
On Tuesday morning, Outkick’s Bobby Burack responded to an X post implying a desire to dismiss Kimes from ESPN, along with the other layoffs.
Burack makes a firm stance on Kimes’ position but does not rule out others on the eventful day of dismissals.
“Mina Kimes is safe,” said Burack. “Newton was the last big name on the layoff list. There are a few more that will come out this afternoon, but no one big.”
Other names clearly safe with the network include Pat McAfee (increased to $60 million a year) and Stephen A. Smith (new contract worth $100 million). As some inevitably prosper in wealth, some considered legends are now removed.
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PFN’s Donald Stewart also gave his input amid ESPN’s layoffs. He wrote, “It is hard to comprehend that so many respected faces and voices from people’s sports childhoods, growing up watching ESPN and NFL Network, have been let go, with likely more to come. A sad day for the industry, let alone the individuals affected.”
Among those frustrated by layoffs is Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, who believes Ravech should have a job over others who are still at the company.
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Among the shocking exits, none seems more surprising than Ravech’s, who spent 33 years with the company as a broadcaster. Enraged by the decision Portnoy took to X, where he did not hold back.
“Boo!!!! Karl Ravech is awesome,” said Portnoy emphatically. “How does Mina Kimes have a job before Ravech? Mina Kimes is the worst of the worst!”
Boo!!!! Karl Ravech is awesome! How does Mina Kimes have a job before Ravech? Mina Kimes is the worst of the worst of the worst! https://t.co/crMpU6Kg3F
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) July 21, 2026
A crucial member on several ESPN outlets, Kimes has been with the network since 2014. Some impressive accolades for the 40-year-old include being a two-time nominee for the Dan Jenkins Medal for Excellence in Sportswriting, hosting “The Mina Kimes Show,” and producing features on several superstar athletes.
As Kimes and others reportedly remain at ESPN, the shocking layoff period is another reminder not to take anything in sports for granted and to appreciate your favorite personalities while you can.
