ESPN Reportedly Planning To Replace Adam Schefter With Ian Rapoport

ESPN quietly plans next big shift in NFL insider roles.

ESPN has started to map out its future after taking control of NFL Network, and two familiar faces could play a vital role in that plan.

In the short term, fans will likely see more crossover between ESPN and NFL Network talent. This already shows that the two networks are working more closely together. At the same time, ESPN is also thinking ahead about future changes in major roles.

According to Front Office Sports, ESPN sees Ian Rapoport and Daniel Jeremiah as possible long-term replacements for some of its biggest stars. Rapoport could eventually take over Adam Schefter’s role as the network’s top NFL insider. Jeremiah could become the main voice for NFL Draft coverage, a position long held by Mel Kiper Jr.

For now, nothing is changing. Schefter and Kiper still play major roles and will lead coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft from April 23 to 25. But ESPN is already planning for the future.

Clear Succession Plan Takes Shape

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Schefter turns 60 this year, and Mel Kiper Jr. is 66. Both still do a great job, but ESPN knows it needs to plan for the future. The network saw Adrian Wojnarowski step away from his NBA insider role at 55 in 2024, which likely pushed ESPN to think ahead.

While Rapoport is 46, he is now a key target for ESPN. His contract ends in May, and the network wants to keep him. Reports say signing him to a new deal is a top priority. Daniel Jeremiah is also highly valued. He has appeared on ESPN before and brings strong knowledge from both scouting and media.

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For now, ESPN plans to keep NFL Network as its own brand. Rapoport and Jeremiah will likely stay in their current roles. Scott Hanson is also expected to continue hosting NFL RedZone. Still, ESPN clearly sees NFL Network as a place to develop future talent.

The company has done this before. It hired Schefter from NFL Network in 2009 and brought in Peter Schrager in 2025. That history makes a smooth transition easy to see.

Rapoport and Jeremiah would not need much time to adjust. They already understand the audience and the job. ESPN views them as ready replacements.

If ESPN signs Rapoport to a new contract soon, it will send a strong message. It would show the network plans to build its future around trusted and familiar faces.