Former NFL linebacker and longtime sports media personality Bart Scott is making it clear that he has no plans to quietly move on from ESPN.
Scott recently revealed that the network informed him his contract would not be renewed when it expires in September. According to Scott, ESPN delivered the news over the phone while he was on his way into the studio to host his radio show.
The timing of the call clearly caught Scott off guard.
When ESPN reportedly expressed that it wished the conversation could have happened in person, Scott wasn’t buying it.
“Like, no, you don’t, motherf*cker. ‘Oh, I wish I could do it in person!’ Nah.”
Despite his frustration with how the situation was handled, Scott said he doesn’t hold a grudge against ESPN and remains appreciative of the opportunities the network provided him throughout his media career.
But that doesn’t mean he’s accepting the decision without motivation.
Scott made it clear that his next chapter will be about proving ESPN wrong.
“It’s my job to make them regret it.”
Bart Scott Opens Up About Sports Media Representation
Scott also reflected on his belief that he could have eventually worked alongside former NFL tight end Shannon Sharpe at CBS.
However, he suggested that television networks sometimes have a particular look or image in mind when assembling their on-air talent.
During the conversation with Craig Carton, Scott was asked if he was referring to race.
“Yeah, you can’t have too many of us,” Scott responded.
The comments add another dimension to Scott’s departure from ESPN and highlight his broader perspective on opportunities and representation within sports media.
Scott spent more than a decade building a second career in sports media after retiring from the NFL. Known for his outspoken personality and willingness to debate, he became a recognizable voice across ESPN programming.
Now, with his ESPN contract set to expire in September, Scott appears determined to turn his departure into motivation.
Whether that means another major network opportunity, an expanded role in radio or a different path entirely, Scott’s message is clear: He believes there’s still plenty left for him to accomplish.
And if his comments are any indication, he’s ready to let his next move do the talking.
