Former NFL player and ESPN commentator Ryan Clark is charting a new path after an unexpected layoff from ESPN in July 2026, where he contributed for 12 years on shows such as “First Take” and “Monday Night Football.” The departure came during a live commercial break, taking Clark by surprise. Despite the setback, Clark found renewed focus on his Emmy-nominated project, “The Pivot Podcast,” which he hosts alongside former NFL stars Fred Taylor and Channing Crowder, providing NFL insights and analysis through “The Pivot Sports,” a show produced in partnership with NFL Films.

Clark sees his exit from ESPN as a turning point that pushed him to take risks he previously hesitated over, acknowledging the fear and unknowns involved in building his own brand. He noted that without being laid off, he might not have ventured to create his own media company. This mindset shift has led to “The Pivot Sports” airing live NFL discussions and deeper breakdowns, carving out a growing audience and new opportunities outside traditional broadcasting.

Adding a significant boost to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Clark recently secured investment from Howard Schultz, the former CEO and chairman of Starbucks. Schultz reached out to Clark during his ESPN transition to offer support and expressed belief in Clark’s vision and personal brand. Encouraged by Schultz’s confidence, Clark was inspired to expand his ambitions beyond his existing shows, with Schultz joining as an investor and strategic partner in Clark’s company, Pivot25 Productions.

Launched alongside producer Alicia Zubikowski, Pivot25 Productions aims to evolve into a lasting media enterprise under Schultz’s guidance. Clark shared that building a relationship with Schultz has already provided valuable business lessons and expressed excitement to continue growing with such a high-profile and supportive partner. As Clark embraces this new chapter, he remains focused on creating content and opportunities that reflect his unique perspective and drive.