Stephen A. Smith sensationally rejects mega ESPN contract offer with First Take star demanding new terms

STEPHEN A. Smith firmly rejected ESPN’s contract offer to the soon-to-be free agent in the sports media world.

The First Take star, 56, revealed that he has conditions to have his services secured at the network.

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On Tuesday, Smith appeared at Front Office Sports’ Tuned In Summit in New York.

The fiery personality took part in an on-stage interview with the outlet’s reporter Michael McCarthy, who asked him for an update on contract negotiations with ESPN .

“Not a word,” Stephen A. said.

The ESPN star then opened up on the situation in a direct way.

“They’ve made an offer. I countered. And that’s where we’ve left it… They have their vision, and I have mine,” Smith said.

It’s been previously reported that Stephen A. could be in line for a deal worth $100 million total or $20 million annually.

He would be the highest-paid personality on ESPN again.

Smith’s current $12 million annual salary has been outdone recently by Joe Buck , Troy Aikman, and Pat McAfee as all three make more than $15 million each year.

“I want to get paid,” he said.

“When you’ve been No. 1 for 12 years, well, what the hell does that warrant?”

It has previously been reported that Stephen A. is seeking a jaw-dropping contract worth $25 million a year, per Puck News .

The ESPN star is determined to be the highest-paid worker at ESPN.

Smith would have a number of suitors for his employment if he were to fail to agree to a new contract with the Disney-owned network.

He initially started working for ESPN back in 2003.

ESPN/ First Take

Stephen A. is now the face of the network and has helped First Take’s ratings skyrocket.

He claimed that the program has generated 10 times as much revenue as when he started co-hosting the show in 2012.

And while Smith is known for his takes on the NBA , he believes that his services should also be used for ESPN’s NFL coverage.

“Last time I checked, they had a Monday Night Football game last night, with a Monday Night Countdown ,” he said. “I wasn’t part of it.”

“I’ve been blessed and fortunate to be No. 1.

“Last time I checked, the No. 1 sports brand is the NFL .

“So why shouldn’t the No. 1 guy on the air be a part of the No. 1 product?”