By Blessing 
Dan Orlovsky Hints at Possible Departure from ESPN
A well-known voice in the NFL world might be stepping away from ESPN.
Former Detroit Lions quarterback Dan Orlovsky suggested on First Take Monday that his time with the network could be coming to an end.
Orlovsky has been with ESPN since 2018, regularly appearing on shows like First Take, Get Up, and NFL Live. Over the years, he’s built a reputation for his detailed Xs and Os analysis, unique food takes, and the occasional controversial opinion—such as his criticism of Jalen Hurts, now a Super Bowl-winning quarterback.
Earlier this week, Orlovsky publicly apologized for calling Hurts a “liability,” but his latest comments suggest that his role at ESPN may be changing—or possibly coming to an end.
“You guys know this is the end of the season for me … I’m taking a break. Won’t be on TV for a long time,” Orlovsky said on First Take. “Just wanted to say thank you to you guys – Stephen A. [Smith], Molly [Qerim], Shannon [Sharpe] – for a great season. Love being with you guys and love y’all.
“Never know what the future holds, but I’m taking a break … just want to say thank you. Appreciate you guys so much.”
Following his on-air statement, a fan on social media questioned whether this was more than just a temporary break.
“Is [Dan Orlovsky] leaving ESPN? That sounded like a leaving-the-network speech. Huge loss [if] it happens,” the viewer wrote.
Orlovsky’s response only fueled speculation: “Lotta decision to be made. See what happens. I’m grateful for it all.”
There’s also been talk about Orlovsky’s desire to coach. His close friend and fellow former Lion, Kellen Moore, was recently hired as the Saints’ head coach, adding to the speculation about Orlovsky’s next move.
If he does leave, he wouldn’t be the only high-profile departure—Robert Griffin III, another former NFL quarterback turned analyst, was let go by ESPN in August 2024.
For now, Orlovsky’s future remains uncertain, but his message makes it clear that big changes could be ahead.