James Palmer confirmed his departure from his position via social media early Thursday morning. NFL Network is reportedly in discussions with ESPN regarding the sale of the network and other assets. According to a report, NFL Network has made significant cuts to its on-air personalities as part of ongoing staff reductions.
Among those affected by the network’s downsizing are Melissa Stark, Andrew Siciliano, James Palmer, and Will Selva. NFL Network spokesperson Alex Riethmiller stated that the network is evaluating its talent roster for the upcoming 2024 season and beyond, resulting in renewals, non-renewals, and additions based on programming needs. Riethmiller expressed gratitude to departing talent for their contributions to NFL Media.
Palmer confirmed his departure on social media, expressing gratitude for his time at NFL Network and excitement for future opportunities. He had been with the network for nearly a decade, serving as a national reporter since 2015. Siciliano, a longstanding host on the network, gained popularity through his work on DirecTV’s ‘RedZone’ and NFL Total Access.
Stark, known for her coverage of major NFL events such as the draft and Super Bowl, will continue as a sideline reporter for NBC’s ‘Sunday Night Football’. Selva, who provided updates on ‘Good Morning Football’, will see the show relocate from New York to Los Angeles.
While some personalities, like Jamie Erdhal, have confirmed their move to the new location, others such as Peter Schrager, Kyle Brandt, and Jason McCourty are yet to announce their plans. The departure of Stark, Siciliano, Palmer, and Selva is part of broader cost-cutting measures at NFL Network.
Reports suggest that the NFL is considering selling NFL Network and other media assets to ESPN in an equity swap, indicating potential strategic shifts within the industry.