The news of Molly Qerim’s ESPN exit did not come out in the way she had hoped it would.

In a note posted to her Instagram Story, the “First Take” host said Tuesday morning that news “came out earlier than I intended” — hours after Sports Business Journal reported that she turned down ESPN’s offer for a new contract and will depart the worldwide leader at the end of the year.

“Molly has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of ‘First Take’s’ success since joining as host a decade ago,” Burke Magnus, president of content at ESPN, said Tuesday , shortly after Qerim’s statement. “She elevated the show with her poise, skill and professionalism, while supporting others as a kind and encouraging teammate. 4

“We respect Molly’s decision, wish her the best in the f

See Full Page