Chad Johnson Eyes Shannon Sharpe’s Spot on “First Take”

Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson seems to be making a play for Shannon Sharpe’s role on “First Take” after Sharpe’s recent firing from ESPN. This decision came soon after the resolution of a $50 million lawsuit.

During a promotional event for the EA Sports game “Madden NFL 26,” Johnson was co-hosting the “Nightcap” podcast with Sharpe. He mentioned that he plans to be in the studio for the upcoming NFL season in 2025.

“I think I could get used to this… six months,” he remarked when host Molly Qerim asked about his thoughts on the new “First Take” studio located in Lower Manhattan.

“I should be here for ‘Thursday Night Football,’ which marks the first week of the season,” Johnson added, expressing his anticipation.

When Qerim referenced Stephen A. Smith’s hosting duties, she encouraged Johnson to discuss things with Smith, who joined the show remotely.

“The fact that you took a break for me shows you’re trying to kick things off a bit early,” Johnson told Smith. “I appreciate that. I’m gearing up for what’s going to be a fantastic season.”

Having previously appeared on “First Take,” Johnson has actively expressed interest in securing a permanent spot on the show while responding to various criticisms on social media.

Sharpe’s departure from ESPN follows a lawsuit he was facing. The plaintiff, significantly younger than him, accused Sharpe of multiple incidents of sexual assault at the end of 2024 and early 2025. Sharpe has consistently denied the allegations through his attorney.

On the “Nightcap” podcast, Sharpe reflected on his firing and wished that the news had been postponed until after his brother Sterling Sharpe was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. “I really hoped they could wait until Monday. This weekend is about my brother and family,” he expressed, noting his disappointment that this did not come to pass.

Sharpe, who is 57, shared his regret about overshadowing his brother’s achievement, stating, “It’s a moment we were all looking forward to—the first two brothers in the Hall of Fame.” He originally joined “First Take” in fall 2023 after leaving FS1.