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ESPN Weighs Scott Van Pelt for 5 p.m. Slot as SportsCenter Outdraws ‘Around the Horn

ESPN says the interim 5 p.m. SportsCenter is beating the previous show’s audience, prompting a deliberate timeline that points to 2026 for a permanent format.

Overview

  • ESPN content chief Burke Magnus confirmed discussions about moving Scott Van Pelt from his late-night SportsCenter to the 5 p.m. ET window.
  • Peter Schrager and Brian Windhorst are also being evaluated for the hour, with Windhorst’s new deal reported but not formally announced by ESPN.
  • Magnus acknowledged an attempted reunion of Van Pelt with former radio partner Ryen Russillo, who opted to launch a Barstool-backed venture instead.
  • If Van Pelt shifts earlier, he would likely still handle select late-night postgame editions after marquee events, according to reporting.
  • A final decision is not expected this year as ESPN notes the current 5 p.m. SportsCenter between NFL Live and PTI is drawing a bigger audience than Around the Horn did.