Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe (Photo via @awfulannouncing/X)
Shannon Sharpe waxed lyrical over his appreciation for Stephen A. Smith following the announcement of his extension with ESPN on Tuesday.

The Pro Football Hall of Famer has agreed to a multi-year deal with The Worldwide Leader in Sports.

The development was announced in a network press release today.

“Being a part of this family has been a blessing,” Sharpe said. “Everything about this relationship with ESPN, Stephen A., and First Take, has been tremendous. I look forward to expanding my role and showing more of the world what I have to offer. The show goes on!”

The former NFL tight end also thanked his colleagues at ‘First Take’ during the show but reserved special thanks for Stephen A. Smith, who he credited for having his back during the lowest point in his life.

You can take a listen below:

Shannon Sharpe joined ESPN on a short-term contract last August, which required him to appear on the network’s flagship show on Mondays and Tuesdays during the NFL and college football seasons.

He signed an extension to remain on for the rest of the NBA season back in February.

Shannon Sharpe Has Enjoyed A Lot Of Success Since Leaving FS1

Sharpe’s arrival at ESPN came after a seven-year stint as co-host of FS1’s ‘Undisputed’ alongside Skip Bayless.

The two fell out last year before FS1 agreed to buy Sharpe out.

The three-time Super Bowl champion also hosts two very successful shows, ‘Club Shay Shay’ and ‘Nightcap. ‘ On the former, he interviews a different guest every episode and talks sports with former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson and ex-NBA guard Gilbert Arenas on the latter.