ESPN Fires Griffin, Ponder Amid Cost-Cutting

ESPN has fired former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III and 'Sunday NFL Countdown' host Samantha Ponder as part of its recent cost-cutting measures. Griffin, who joined ESPN in 2021, expressed gratitude for his time at the network and humorously responded to the firing on social media. Ponder's dismissal has drawn attention due to her outspoken views on transgender athletes in women's sports, which may have contributed to her termination alongside financial reasons. Both were among ESPN's high-profile on-air talents, with Griffin set to be replaced by Jason Kelce. Despite their departures, Griffin and Ponder remain popular figures in sports media. ESPN's financial restructuring continues to impact its talent pool, reflecting broader industry challenges.