Two NFL reporters leave ESPN with replacement already announced in major shake-up

ESPN’s drastic personnel shake-up continues with the 2026 NFL season firmly on the horizon.

Sports Media Watch report that Katie George and Peter Schrager will not return as sideline reporters for the network’s No.2 broadcast team.

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The pair held the role for just one season, with Schrager joining the ‘Worldwide Leader in Sports‘ after leaving FOX and NFL Network.

Schrager could still work the sideline on an occasional basis, though, should the schedule produce a doubleheader, which is set to happen in Week 16.

2025 was George’s debut season in the NFL, having worked multiple College Football Playoff Semifinals and regular season games.

In May 2025, George was recognized with an Emmy for her work on ESPN’s SEC on ABC college football coverage.

Both Schrager and George have not been let go from the network. The former is expected to continue regularly across studio programming.

George is expected to continue her college football work, and additional appearances on NBA programming.

ESPN’s No.2 sideline reporter named

Molly McGrath is taking over the role, serving as the sole sideline reporter for the network’s new package of games that came with their $3bn takeover of NFL Network.

McGrath is known for her work as sideline reporter on ESPN’s college football coverage alongside broadcasting crew Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy.

“I’m thrilled to expand my role within ESPN’s NFL coverage and for the opportunity to showcase a broader range of skills, from sideline reporting to hosting in studio, while diving deeper into the sport at the highest level,” she told Front Office Sports.

“Joining ESPN’s NFL coverage during its Year of the Super Bowl makes this moment even more special and fulfills a lifelong dream,” McGrath said.

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“I’m grateful to ESPN for this opportunity and excited to bring the same preparation, passion, and commitment that have guided my work in college football to our NFL audience.”

McGrath will also serve as the top fill-in host for Laura Rutledge on NFL Live.

Alongside her studio work, Rutledge was promoted to a full-time role as sideline reporter for MNF last summer, alongside Lisa Salters.

The 37-year-old admitted she faced anxiety and mental battles every time she stepped onto the field.

Schrager and George’s departure marks another change ESPN have made to personel.

The network have let go of some of its biggest on-air talent, perhaps none more so than Ryan Clark, who was recently fired during a live broadcast.

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Previous employees of NFL Network were also not safe, with renowned NFL reporter Tom Pelissero being arguably the biggest name to be let go.

Schrager and George appear to have survived the cuts, but as well-known in the sports media industry, things can change quickly.