FIRST Take viewers couldn’t understand why Shannon Sharpe was absent from the show on the 2024 NFL season’s Opening Night.
New cast member Jason McCourty joined Dan Orlovsky in the First Take studio on Thursday morning.
Shannon Sharpe on First Take in August 2024[/caption]
Jason McCourty makes his First Take debut on Thursday morning[/caption]
Meanwhile, Stephen A. Smith and host Molly Qerim fronted the show from a set in California.
But Sharpe, 56, was missing as the crew discussed the matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, which would kick off in just hours.
One of the First Take viewers described his absence as a “criminal” decision on the day of the long-awaited NFL season kick-off.
“No @ShannonSharpe on NFL opening day is CRIMINAL!!!!! @FirstTake @espn,” the viewer posted on X.
That is not to say fans didn’t enjoy McCourty’s presence.
Viewers gave the former NFL cornerback’s rave reviews for his First Take debut.
The show’s cast was excited to welcome the Super Bowl LIII winner to the ESPN family, too.
“We’re so lucky to have you,” Qerim told McCourty.
“It’s so good you’re with us, we’re going to have a lot of fun.”
McCourty then received a round of applause from Smith and Orlovsky.
