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Ryan Clark fired from ESPN after comparing Isaiah Likely to Travis Kelce

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 10:08 AM

Last updated Jul 21, 2026

Ryan Clark fired from ESPN after comparing Isaiah Likely to Travis Kelce

Summary

Ryan Clark was fired from ESPN during a live broadcast as the network restructures its NFL coverage ahead of the 2026 season. Clark was notified of his dismissal during a commercial break while discussing NFL tight end Isaiah Likely, which sparked notable comparisons to Travis Kelce. Clark praised Likely’s potential impact alongside Jaxon Dart with the New York Giants, indicating a belief that Likely could become a significant player in the league. Despite questions about the future of Kelce, Likely's performance will be closely watched in the upcoming season as he aims to break out after a career-low scoring last year.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Ryan Clark was informed of his firing during a live NFL segment.
•He compared Isaiah Likely to Travis Kelce just before his dismissal.
•Likely is set to play for the Giants after transferring from the Ravens.
•Clark’s exit is part of ESPN's cost-cutting measures ahead of the 2026 season.
•Likely aims to improve after a career-low season last year with one touchdown.

Latest Updates

10:08 AMYahoo Sports — The TE Ryan Clark compared to Travis Kelce just before he was fired by ESPN

What they're saying

"
Ryan Clark’s departure from ESPN has sent shockwaves across the NFL media over recent hours. The 46-year-old has been let go from ESPN as the network makes some drastic changes to their coverage ahead of the 2026 season getting underway.
— Yahoo Sports

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