ESPN experimented with having a former NFL star appear on First Take — and fans gave it their stamp of approval.
Shannon Sharpe has been absent from First Take since the beginning of July.
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The NFL Hall of Famer went on vacation alongside Stephen A. Smith and presenter Molly Qerim.
However, Qerim is back at work, while Smith will return on Friday.
Therefore, ESPN has worked with numerous personalities, including retired NFL wide receiver star Chad Johnsonin Sharpe’s place.
A six-time Pro Bowler, Johnson was also known for his brash personality during his time in the NFL.
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How bold? In 2008, Johnson, whose jersey number was “85”, legally changed his name to Chad Ochocinco, which is “eight and five” combined in Spanish, before reverting to his original name in 2012.
He and Sharpe also co-host the popular podcast Nightcap.
Johnson appeared remotely on First Take throughout the week and discussed various topics.
One of the topics concerned Miami Dolphins star Tyreek Hill, who Johnson says is “in a class of his own” and “a talent we haven’t seen before.”
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First Take fans applauded Johnson’s efforts on the sports debate show and want him to appear regularly in the future.
“Ocho was fine today. Hire him @espn,” one wrote.
“They then had @ochocinco on @FirstTake all week @espn go ahead and give him that contract,” commented another.
“Oh I see @ochocinco here representing the people at @FirstTake with the @NightcapShow_ sign behind him. I need more of this,” said a third.
“Please make @ochocinco a permanent fixture on @FirstTake!!!! He’s killing it!” one bedroom added.
Sharpe joined First Take last September after a seven-year stint with FS1’s Undisputed came to an end.
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He has been a fan favorite on the ESPN show, which has seen an increase in ratings.
Sharpe recently signed a long-term extension with the network.
ESPN will continue to use him across the network under his new contract, having him make appearances on shows other than First Take.
It’s unclear when Sharpe will return to First Take.
And it’s unclear whether Johnson will have a continued role on the show.
First Take begins every weekday from 10 a.m. ET to noon on ESPN.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
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