When Molly Qerim joined ESPN more than two decades ago, few could have imagined the impact she would leave on sports broadcasting. Today, she is a familiar and trusted presence on First Take, where she has guided the show for the past ten years. From navigating the fast-paced world of digital and live sports coverage to stepping into the moderator’s chair in 2015, Qerim has honed the skill of keeping even the liveliest debates on track. Fans admire her ability to let strong personalities shine while maintaining the show’s rhythm, and over the years, she has helped shape how millions of viewers start their mornings with sports talk.
Molly Qerim’s departure and the search for a new host
Molly Qerim first joined First Take as an interim moderator after Cari Champion’s departure, but within months, she earned a permanent role thanks to her steady presence and command on air. Over nearly a decade, she has guided the show through countless heated debates, helping shape its rhythm while allowing strong personalities like Stephen A. Smith to shine. Her leadership made her a trusted figure for millions of viewers tuning in each morning. Now, Qerim is preparing to step away by the end of 2025.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Reports confirm ESPN offered her a contract extension, but she has chosen to move forward into the next chapter of her career. On Instagram, she wrote, “After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.” Her departure leaves ESPN facing a significant challenge: finding a moderator capable of maintaining the show’s legacy, managing live debate intensity, and guiding it into a new era.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What ESPN needs in a First Take moderator
Replacing someone like Molly Qerim, who has associated her identity with the show, will not be easy. Not everyone can control a room where strong personalities dominate, as well as her. Stephen A. Smith thrives on fiery exchanges, and the new moderator will have to keep that energy balanced. To succeed, the next host must bring qualities that go beyond sports knowledge and camera presence. Viewers will be quick to judge if the chemistry feels off.
The next First Take moderator should have:
Experience as a neutral moderator able to guide heated debates without taking sides.
Sports credibility to connect with both analysts and fans who expect insight, not just questions.
Strong on-camera presence with energy to match Stephen A. Smith and a rotating guest lineup.
Audience appeal to keep loyal fans engaged while also drawing in new viewers.
These qualities matter because First Take is not simply another studio show. It thrives on intensity, humor, and occasional chaos, all needing balance. Whoever steps in will have to earn both respect at the desk and trust from fans watching at home.
Top 5 possible replacements for Molly Qerim
1. Courtney Cronin
Courtney Cronin has already been tested in Qerim’s seat. When she filled in this summer, many fans praised her performance. Social media lit up with comments like, “You should be a permanent fixture on this show omg! Go Courtney.” Her work covering the NFL gives her depth of knowledge, and her energy has impressed colleagues.
Strengths:
Proven at ESPN, with experience covering NFL stories and breaking down analysis.
Already tested as a First Take fill-in and earned strong fan reactions.
Familiar with the tone and tempo of the show.
Challenges:
Needs more time to develop the same long-term rapport Qerim built with audiences.
Still growing her national profile outside of NFL coverage.
2. Shae Peppler Cornette
Shae Peppler Cornette has become a familiar ESPN face across television and radio. She stepped into First Take during Qerim’s absence and immediately commanded attention. While not every viewer was convinced, she showed confidence and presence. One fan even complained online, “First Take replaced Molly with a worse version of Molly today,” while others defended her strong delivery.
Strengths:
Comfortable with live television and high-energy segments.
Broad sports knowledge, especially with her strong football background.
Regularly appears on ESPN Radio, adding versatility.
Challenges:
Early feedback from First Take viewers was mixed, especially in heated debates.
Needs to refine her moderation style to keep balance during tense moments.
3. Peter Schrager
Peter Schrager joined ESPN this year, quickly becoming a fresh voice across programs like Get Up and First Take. He previously spent years on NFL Network’s Good Morning Football, where his polished analysis stood out. ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus even said, “Peter will have an instant impact at ESPN combining his charismatic style and deep knowledge of the NFL.”
Strengths:
Brings nearly two decades of experience in NFL media.
Skilled at balancing debate with polished storytelling.
Offers a new voice with charisma that could refresh the show.
Challenges:
Less experience as a neutral moderator compared to Qerim.
Still adapting to ESPN’s debate-driven culture, which differs from his previous roles.
4. Evan Cohen
Evan Cohen has already had a trial run as Qerim’s temporary replacement. His calm and measured approach brought balance to fiery debates. While some fans were disappointed with his hosting, others appreciated his ability to maintain structure. His familiarity with ESPN makes him a safe choice, though his name lacks the buzz of others on the list.
Strengths:
Familiar with the First Take format after stepping in multiple times.
Provides a steady presence that can calm heated discussions.
Respected internally within ESPN’s radio and television platforms.
Challenges:
Lacks the same star power that a new big name might bring.
May not generate excitement among fans looking for a bold change.
5. A Rising ESPN Talent (Wildcard)
Why it’s a possibility:
ESPN has a deep pool of young anchors and reporters waiting for a breakout opportunity. The network could decide to surprise fans with an under-the-radar choice. While risky, this could inject a fresh energy into First Take. The gamble lies in whether fans would accept a new face in such a high-profile role.
Strengths:
Offers a chance to reshape First Take with a fresh perspective.
Can grow into the role while connecting with a younger audience.
Creates flexibility if ESPN wants to adjust the format.
Challenges:
Fans may resist a newcomer in such a familiar setting.
Chemistry with Stephen A. Smith would take time to develop.
What this change could mean for First Take
Molly Qerim’s exit could redefine the show’s future. First Take has thrived on her ability to balance chaos with control. Without her, ESPN faces choices that could either maintain the current formula or push the program in a new direction. Fans will watch closely to see how the chemistry shifts, especially between Stephen A. Smith and the new host.
The next moderator could influence:
Viewer loyalty, as audiences may decide whether to embrace or reject the new face.
Show dynamics depending on whether debates become sharper or more structured.
Format changes if ESPN wants to use the transition as a chance to reinvent the program.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Conclusion: Who Has the Edge?
Courtney Cronin appears to be the frontrunner to take the moderator’s chair, thanks to her strong ESPN track record and fan approval. Peter Schrager could serve as ESPN’s bold, high-profile choice, while Evan Cohen represents a steady in-house option. Shae Peppler Cornette has gained momentum despite mixed reviews, and there’s always the wildcard possibility. Can that wildcard entry be Malika Andrews? It all depends on ESPN. Either they can take a risk on fresh talent, shaking up the show in an unexpected way, or trust someone like Malika.