In the wake of the Ryan Clark vs. Peter Schrager controversy at ESPN, interesting details are emerging at the Worldwide Leader.

Clark, a 13-year NFL veteran, got into a public spat with Schrager, who was hired away from the NFL Network, on Friday. The two ESPN analysts were discussing CeeDee Lamb’s performance against the Eagles. Lamb, an All-Pro, had three big drops – including one late – though he also had seven catches for more than 100 yards. Schrager suggested that he still played well, while Clark said it didn’t matter because the Cowboys lost.

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“The thing is this, though. And we shouldn’t do this on TV. So, I apologize if people think this is rude — that’s the non-player in you,” Clark said on air.

“I’m not looking at fantasy football. Ryan, don’t belittle me like that,” Schrager shot back. “I can come in, as three ex-players are saying one thing, and give an alternative that maybe CeeDee Lamb did play well.”

Nov 25, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Ryan Clark on the ESPN Monday Night Football Countdown set before the game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Nov 25, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Ryan Clark on the ESPN Monday Night Football Countdown set before the game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

ESPN is facing pressure from fans to punish Clark, who has had two public feuds with NFL analysts. Earlier this year, he called out Robert Griffin III for his criticism of Angel Reese. Clark suggested that RGIII couldn’t relate to Reese, a Black woman, because his wife is white. Clark ultimately apologized.

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While ESPN is facing pressure from the outside, the network will continue to feature both Clark and Schrager on the air.

“Ryan Clark & Peter Schrager will both be on ESPN’s NFL Live this afternoon from Chicago. There will be a segment or two together,” The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand reported.

ESPN is facing pressure internally

According to a report from Outkick, ESPN is facing internal pressure to do something about Clark.

Bobby Burack reports that some ESPN talents do not want to work next to Clark.

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“Further, various ESPN talents have expressed to OutKick since Saturday that they don’t want to work alongside Clark, citing his lack of impulse control and professionalism,” he reported.

ESPN’s NFL Live, featuring Clark, is scheduled to air at 3 p.m. E.T. on Monday afternoon, leading into the Bears vs. Vikings game.

This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 8, 2025, where it first appeared in the Sports Media section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.