Trey Wingo shows ‘NFL Live’ viewership receipts after Ryan Clark’s ESPN firing
· Yahoo Sports
Former ESPN host Trey Wingo is defending former coworkers at the network after “NFL Live” went through a shakeup with former NFL star Ryan Clark’s dismissal.
The longtime sports media figure came quick to the defense of his former program after Emmanuel Acho attacked ESPN for getting rid of Clark. However, Wingo’s got receipts regarding viewership that don’t support Acho’s claims.
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MORE: Ryan Clark details controversial ‘NFL Live’ exit, ESPN layoff
Acho recently took to social media to suggest that Clark is a main reason why “NFL Live” is so successful. However, WIngo is quick to point out that the ESPN show’s ratings have dipped significantly over the years.
In fact, WIngo even posted a chart commenting on Acho’s rationale showing that the program peaked in viewers over a decade ago. That includes top ratings for “NFL Live” allegedly coming in 2013, which is long before Clark’s tenure.
Wingo dismisses former NFL player’s ESPN claims
Radio and television personality Trey Wingo is interviewed on radio row in preparation for Super Bowl XLVIII. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-Imagn Images
Wingo served as a longtime member of ESPN’s network of programs until being let go in 2020. However, he continues to be one of the more outspoken sports figures on social media.
MORE: ESPN, NFL Network layoff tracker, List of talent let go
Meanwhile, Acho suffered a similar fate in 2025 after Fox Sports announced several high-profile departures. That included former NFL stars like LeSean McCoy, Keyshawn Johnson and Chase Daniel.
Clark, a former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback, was relieved of his ESPN duties recently, along with others. Although, it’s clear that other media figures like Acho and Stephen A. Smith are upset with his firing.
MORE: Ryan Clark addresses ESPN ouster in social media post
ESPN certainly believes in its current crop of talent though based on the decision to dismiss Clark ahead of the 2026 NFL season. Dan Orlovsky, Mina Kimes and Marcus Spears continue to lead the program alongside a host of other potential names that could be included in the show.
The ESPN-NFL Network merger presents more opportunities for Peter Schrager and Kyle Brandt to give their opinions. However, it will be interesting to see if another network gives Clark an opportunity before the fall.