Shannon Sharpe Poised to Sign Over $100 Million Podcast Deal

HOUSTON — Shannon Sharpe, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and burgeoning media mogul, is reportedly primed to secure a podcast deal that may exceed $100 million as his contract with The Volume podcast network comes to an end. According to sources from Front Office Sports, Sharpe has drawn interest from multiple media companies and is expected to finalize an agreement soon.

Since joining The Volume in August 2023, Sharpe has transformed his media presence, particularly with his flagship shows, “Club Shay Shay” and “Nightcap,” the latter co-hosted by Chad Johnson. These platforms have rapidly become leading voices in sports and entertainment, especially on YouTube, where his interview with comedian Katt Williams amassed over 89 million views.

Sharpe, 56, previously made his mark in the NFL playing tight end for the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens. Over his career, he earned approximately $22 million in salary while winning three Super Bowl rings and being inducted into both the Black College Football Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His next media deal could reportedly pay him four times that amount, a significant step in his post-NFL career.

In addition to his podcast ventures, Sharpe remains an integral part of ESPN‘s lineup, frequently appearing on “First Take” alongside Stephen A. Smith. The potential new contract is expected to cover all shows associated with the Shay Shay network, which includes not only “Club Shay Shay” and “Nightcap” but also “Club 520 Podcast,” “The Bubba Dub Show,” and “Humble Baddies.” This expansion indicates Sharpe’s intention to broaden his media influence.

A spokesperson for Sharpe was unavailable for comment on the negotiations at this time.

Sharpe’s rise in media prominence follows his departure from FS1‘s “Undisputed” in April 2023, where he often sparred with co-host Skip Bayless. His success in the podcast arena illustrates a shifting landscape in sports media as former athletes leverage their fame to establish personal brands and platforms.

As Sharpe weighs offers from various media entities, the industry watches closely, as his decision could set a new financial benchmark for athlete-run media ventures. The prospect of a $100 million deal underscores the evolving dynamics between traditional sports media and digital platforms.