Ed Werder’s time at ESPN has come to an end.
After 26 years at the Worldwide Leader, the seasoned NFL reporter took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that he will no longer be with the network and will “immediately begin considering other opportunities to continue my work covering the NFL.”
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) May 23, 2024
Here’s more of Werder’s statement:
“My ESPN career was highlighted by being assigned to cover 20 consecutive Super Bowls and included having my contributions honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t express appreciation to my incredible colleagues and to the players, coaches and other NFL team members who trusted me with their unique insight when covering their games or breaking news. I’ve created some incredible lifelong memories.
“My gratitude to all who have been in the audience, and I remain thankful to have been provided the most coveted platform in broadcast journalism.
“While this marks the end of my partnership with ESPN, I expect to continue working because, as so many studio hosts have proclaimed—and I still devoutly believe—’Ed Werder has more.'”
ESPN released its own statement on Werder’s departure:
“Ed Werder has been a mainstay on ESPN’s NFL coverage for more than 25 seasons. He has elevated our programs, including Sunday NFL Countdown, and the multiple platforms he’s contributed to while reporting at signature games, Super Bowls, and nearly all league events. His journalistic instincts and relationships have benefitted fans throughout the years. We thank Ed for everything he contributed and wish him success in the future.”
ESPN salutes NFL reporter @WerderEdESPN 🏈 https://t.co/iIAivXbwe3 pic.twitter.com/P2DXogHRHP
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) May 23, 2024
Having covered the NFL for more than 40 years, Werder spent the past 26 of those at ESPN. He had previously been let go by the network in 2017, ultimately to return not two years later. And since 2019, he has served as the Dallas-based bureau reporter covering the NFL and the Cowboys. Prior to ESPN, Werder reported for prominent outlets such as Sports Illustrated (1987-95), the Fort Worth Star-Telegram (1989), the Orlando Sentinel (1991), and the Dallas Morning News (1992-96 ) while serving as a beat writer covering the Cowboys and Denver Broncos.
Werder’s departure marks the end of an era at ESPN. His 26 years with the network, covering 20 Super Bowls and earning recognition from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, solidifies his place as a legend in ESPN’s lore and sports journalism.
With a wealth of experience and a clear passion for all things NFL, it would be surprising if Werder doesn’t find a new platform sooner rather than later. Werder said he expects his coverage to continue in some form as he explores other opportunities to cover the NFL.
While ESPN may no longer be his home, Werder’s impact on NFL coverage will undoubtedly be felt for years.
