With recent layoffs at ESPN following a merger with the NFL Network, ESPN is working to fill positions that were previously held by Cam Newton, Karl Ravech, and others. It appears that part of Newton’s on-screen responsibilities will be taken on by Steve Smith Sr., a former Carolina Panthers teammate.

Steve Smith Sr. is anticipated to take on a regular role in ESPN’s studio shows, such as “Get Up,” “First Take,” and “NFL Live,” according to Ryan Glasspiegel from Front Office Sports. Smith, a passionate former receiver who also played for the Baltimore Ravens, joined the NFL Network after retiring in 2016, states Sam Neumann of Awful Announcing.

Besides his work in television, Smith hosts a podcast focused on wide receivers, called “The 89 Show.” The podcast gets its name from his former jersey number. Smith collaborates with James Palmer, an NFL Network insider, to offer insights on the wide receiver position. While Smith shares his knowledge from playing at the top level, Palmer provides perspectives from his experience with front-office and coaching contacts to either support or question Smith’s analysis.

Smith is known for his candid commentary, particularly his criticism of players like Denver Broncos wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. In the past, Smith labeled Jeudy as a “JAG” or “just a guy,” implying he was replaceable. Even after attempting to apologize, Jeudy held onto the criticism.

“I’ll say it again, I’m sorry I said you were a JAG, just a guy, who’s an average wide receiver they used a first-round pick on that isn’t doing anything,” Smith expressed on NFL Network, addressing Jeudy directly before a Broncos game. “I hope that today you actually show up in a way that you haven’t showed up since they drafted you.”

Smith also faced disagreements with his former teammate Cam Newton, but they eventually made peace in a special episode of “The 89 Show.”