Rich Eisen Returns to ESPN with New Show This Fall

BRISTOL, Conn. (AP) — More than two decades after departing ESPN, Rich Eisen is set to return to the network as part of its new direct-to-consumer offering this fall, according to sources familiar with the plan. Eisen will bring “The Rich Eisen Show” from Roku back to ESPN, with airtime scheduled from noon to 3 p.m. ET.

There is a strong possibility that the show will also feature on ESPN Radio as an anchor program, though specific details remain unsettled. Similar to “The Pat McAfee Show,” Eisen’s program will be licensed by ESPN, allowing him to retain ownership and editorial control over his content. Terms of the deal are currently undisclosed.

Eisen, 55, left ESPN for the NFL Network in 2003, where he became a prominent figure for the league-owned network. He will continue to host NFL Network’s “GameDay” and provide commentary for draft coverage, in addition to calling selected regular-season games.

ESPN has declined to comment on the development. The network plans to launch a direct-to-consumer service this fall, aiming to give customers an alternative to traditional cable subscriptions. Eisen’s addition to the platform is part of ESPN’s broader strategy to enhance content offerings, and he is not the only high-profile personality ESPN has engaged.

The Athletic previously reported that ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro has met with Colin Cowherd regarding a potential deal to integrate Cowherd’s podcast business, The Volume, into ESPN’s offerings.

Eisen’s show will also be available on ESPN+, the streaming service for niche content, as well as Disney+. With ongoing discussions between ESPN and NFL Media about partnerships, Eisen’s return may pave the way for expanded collaboration between the two entities as the direct-to-consumer service approaches its launch.

The inclusion of Eisen is seen as a strategic move to complement “The Pat McAfee Show,” which airs concurrently and has gained significant traction since ESPN licensed it for over $85 million on a five-year deal. Eisen’s show is expected to feature prominently on ESPN’s app as well.

Meanwhile, ESPN Radio currently broadcasts “Joe and Q,” hosted by Joe Fortenbaugh and Qiant “Q” Myers, during the same noon to 3 p.m. ET slot.

Eisen has established his brand by licensing his talk show since 2014, with its previous broadcasts on NBC Sports Network and Peacock before transitioning to Roku in 2022. It currently has national radio distribution through Westwood One and airs on SiriusXM.