Why Skip Bayless’ Return to ‘First Take’ Should Be an Audition for More

There’s no denying that Bayless has built a digital following that rivals many of his peers.

From ESPN’s perspective, the question becomes whether there’s interest in doing business with Bayless again. It’s not a difficult case to make. His track record with the network, combined with his expanding social media reach, presents a compelling argument for a recurring role on First Take. Additionally, with David Roberts no longer overseeing the program alongside Smith as executive producer, the fit makes even more sense.

But the bigger question remains: will audiences respond to a Bayless-Smith pairing the way they once did?

Viewership habits and measurement metrics have changed significantly since 2016. While Smith often highlights First Take’s dominance in morning sports television, the show has faced little direct competition at a comparable scale.

Still, imagine adding Bayless into a regular rotation during football season alongside Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, Cam Newton, and others. Not just a one-off appearance, but true appointment viewing for ESPN. The network has already embraced personalities like Pat McAfee, Josh Pate, and Bussin’ With The Boys as regular contributors across its platforms.

So why not Skip Bayless?

What’s Old Could Be New

The reality is, this isn’t about turning back the clock—it’s about recognizing what still works in a constantly evolving landscape. Bayless and Smith didn’t just create memorable television; they built a format the industry has spent years trying to replicate.

Chemistry like that doesn’t age out—it either exists or it doesn’t.

Friday’s reunion shouldn’t be treated as a curtain call. It should be evaluated as a proof of concept. If the energy is there, if the conversation cuts through the noise, and if the audience responds as history suggests it might, the next step becomes clear.

ESPN doesn’t need nostalgia—it needs impact. And impact is exactly what a recurring role for Bayless on First Take could deliver. The history is proven, the attention is guaranteed, and the interest is already built in.

So, if Friday reminds everyone why this pairing mattered in the first place, ESPN shouldn’t overthink it. Make it a regular feature—and let the audience do the rest.

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John Mamola

John Mamola

John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.

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