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Michael Irvin joins ESPN's 'First Take' alongside Stephen A. Smith

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 6:14 AM

Last updated Sep 14, 2026

Michael Irvin joins ESPN's 'First Take' alongside Stephen A. Smith

Summary

Stephen A. Smith announced that Michael Irvin will return to ESPN's 'First Take'. The former Dallas Cowboys star previously appeared regularly on the show, creating a dynamic with Smith that fans remember fondly. Reactions are mixed, with some celebrating the nostalgia while others question the move as a response to declining ratings. This change fits into a broader strategy by ESPN to revamp its morning lineup ahead of the NFL season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Michael Irvin rejoins 'First Take' as a debate partner for Stephen A. Smith.
•The duo has a history of compelling on-air discussions about the Cowboys.
•Fan reactions are split between nostalgia and skepticism over potential ratings issues.
•ESPN has been restructuring its programming for the upcoming NFL season.
•The return suggests ESPN may be leveraging familiarity to enhance viewer engagement.

Latest Updates

6:14 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Great Move,’ ‘Ratings Must Be Down’ — NFL Fans Divided As Stephen A. Smith Announces Legendary WR Is Joining ESPN’s ‘First Take’

What they're saying

"
Stephen A. Smith is reaching into ESPN’s past as he reshapes the cast around “First Take,” and his latest addition is a familiar face with Hall of Fame credentials.
— Yahoo Sports

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