Rich Eisen on the red carpet at the 2025 NFL Honors program in New Orleans before Super Bowl 59.
A familiar voice is back on ESPN. Rich Eisen will anchor SportsCenter on August 18, marking his first appearance at the desk in more than two decades. The special broadcast will follow the Monday Night Football preseason clash between the Washington Commanders and the Cincinnati Bengals.
Rich Eisen Back in ESPN’s Spotlight
Eisen became a household name at ESPN between 1996 and 2003. His quick wit, authoritative voice, and deep sports knowledge made him one of the most recognizable anchors on SportsCenter. In 2003, he left to become a founding face of the NFL Network, where he built an enduring reputation as a host and analyst.
Now, after more than 20 years, Eisen is making a high-profile return to ESPN. This marks not just a nostalgic comeback but also a fresh chapter for both the veteran broadcaster and the network.
Mina Kimes to Join Eisen on Set
Eisen will not be alone when he returns to the iconic anchor desk. ESPN analyst Mina Kimes will co-host the postgame SportsCenter with him live from Los Angeles. Kimes, known for her sharp NFL analysis and engaging presence, has quickly become one of the most respected voices on ESPN’s coverage of the league.
Together, Eisen and Kimes promise to deliver a dynamic blend of insight and entertainment as they recap the Commanders-Bengals matchup.
ESPN’s Bold NFL Move
Eisen’s comeback coincides with a groundbreaking shift in sports media. Earlier this month, ESPN and the NFL announced a non-binding agreement that could reshape football coverage. Under the proposed deal, ESPN will acquire the NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and NFL Fantasy in exchange for a 10% equity stake in ESPN.
The move is designed to consolidate NFL content under ESPN’s expanding sports empire, giving fans easier access to live coverage, highlights, and fantasy updates. Eisen’s return feels symbolic, bridging ESPN’s historic roots in football with its bold new future.
The Rich Eisen Show Finds a New Home
Eisen’s role at ESPN won’t stop with SportsCenter. His acclaimed weekday talk program, The Rich Eisen Show, is also on the move. Starting September 2, the three-hour show will stream live on ESPN+ and Disney+ in its traditional noon to 3 p.m. ET time slot.
The show, which blends interviews, analysis, and lighthearted sports banter, has long been a favorite among fans. By joining ESPN’s direct-to-consumer platforms, it’s set to reach an even wider audience.
Balancing ESPN and NFL Network Roles
Despite his renewed presence at ESPN, Eisen will continue to hold his prominent role at NFL Network. His ability to straddle both platforms highlights his unique standing in the sports broadcasting world. Few personalities are as trusted and beloved by both the NFL and sports fans as Rich Eisen.
ESPN also confirmed that Eisen will make select appearances across its studio programming in addition to hosting his daily show.
A Return Worth Watching
For longtime sports fans, Eisen’s return to ESPN is more than just a reunion. It’s a reminder of the network’s golden era of SportsCenter and its continued evolution in the streaming age. With the Commanders and Bengals game setting the stage, Eisen’s comeback is poised to be one of the highlights of the preseason.
