ESPN has solidified its NFL coverage by re-signing Laura Rutledge to a multi-year deal. As confirmed in a press release, Rutledge will continue hosting the daily show NFL Live, a role she has successfully managed since 2020. Additionally, she will be involved in ESPN’s extensive coverage of key NFL and college football games, marquee events such as the NFL Draft, the Masters, and SEC Kickoff, and she will keep her position as host of SEC Nation. The release also highlights that Rutledge will act as a company ambassador at major industry events, and additional responsibilities may be assigned during her contract.
Contract specifics have not been disclosed. ESPN’s president of content, Burke Magnus, commented, “Laura is a consummate professional and wonderful teammate. Her versatility allows us to utilize her in multiple roles, across numerous sports, throughout the year. We are fortunate to have her.” Rutledge expressed her gratitude, stating, “ESPN has given me the support and freedom to build my dream career since I arrived eager to learn and grow. I value its continued trust in me, and I cherish the lasting relationships I’ve built, particularly with my NFL Live team, whom I consider family.”
Congratulations @LauraRutledge!
ESPN re-signs the versatile host & reporter 🏈⛳️
Watch & read more on her extensive portfolio: https://t.co/OJL5EFZWLm pic.twitter.com/nRomj91Aec
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) February 26, 2025
Despite being overlooked for more high-profile roles, such as hosting Monday NFL Countdown and Sunday NFL Countdown, Rutledge is a valued member of ESPN’s NFL coverage. Her versatility shines as she transitions from host to reporter, earning praise for her coverage of the College Football Playoff semifinal Sugar Bowl following the New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans. Looking ahead, while Rutledge’s role will primarily remain the same, she is likely to have opportunities for growth—similar to when she was included in the Masters coverage last year. Additionally, ESPN has secured one of the key figures of NFL Live for the foreseeable future as Dan Orlovsky prepares to enter free agency.
