why did molly qerim leave espn

Molly Qerim left ESPN primarily due to contract negotiations where she declined ESPN's offer for a new contract. Although ESPN did not want to lose her, she made the decision to walk away from the show with immediate effect after hosting "First Take" for a decade. The announcement of her departure came sooner than she had planned, and she expressed gratitude for her time on the show and the experiences gained. Details about any specific reasons beyond the contract negotiations have not been publicly disclosed, but there is speculation that there may have been behind-the-scenes tensions. Stephen A. Smith, her co-host, confirmed her abrupt resignation and expressed sadness over her departure, while ESPN praised her contributions and professionalism throughout her tenure.