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Former Steelers safety sounds off on ESPN ‘dictatorship’ after being fired
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 10: ESPN commentator Ryan Clark looks on prior to the game between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles at Lambeau Field on November 10, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) | Getty Images
In its latest round of layoffs, ESPN let go of several long-time on-air talents. One of the more notable names on that list was NFL analyst and former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark, who had been with the network since 2015.
The news drew criticism aimed at ESPN due to Clark finding out about his firing while he was still on air. The Super Bowl champion released a statement on X showing support for his fellow colleagues.
“Sending prayers and love to all those laid off today by ESPN,” Clark writes . “So many of you have poured your life into that company, & I know how you’re feeling right now. My hope is as this door closes another opens for you all. God bless!”
Now, Clark is taking a different-sounding approach as it pertains to discussing his former employer. On the latest episode of The Pivot , he calls the decision to fire him one that resembles a dictatorship.
“This was a dictatorship,” Clark said. “A person or a group of persons – a very small group – they didn’t poll the majority. They didn’t ask that question.”
Clark continued saying that whomever made the call to fire him made the decision out of personal dislike towards him.
“Even though you told me just how important he was, I don’t care,'” Clark said in terms of the mindset of those who fired him. “I don’t care. I know how important you think he is. You work with him every day. I don’t care how important you think he is. I don’t like him.”
What’s next in Clark’s immediate future is unknown, but he will almost certainly land on his feet at another network sooner than later.
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Former SteelersESPNRyan ClarkGreen Bay PackersPhiladelphia EaglesLambeau FieldGreen BayWisconsinPhotoMichael ReavesGetty ImagesOne
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