ESPN stands as the worldwide leader in sports media. Its iconic lineup of shows, broadcasts, and channels has made it one of the most valuable brands in the world.
Its flagship news program, SportsCenter, has featured numerous legendary anchors over the years. On Thursday, ESPN announced that a familiar face will return to the place where his broadcast career took off.
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Reports indicate that NFL Network icon Rich Eisen will host a special midnight edition of SportsCenter. The live broadcast will air from Sunday night into early Monday morning on April 13.
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Eisen remains one of the most notable figures to emerge from the SportsCenter legacy. He began his national media career at ESPN, serving as an anchor from 1996 to 2003.
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Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rich Eisen at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Trip down memory lane
During that time, Eisen and his broadcast partner, the late Stuart Scott, formed a dynamic duo and became the face of ESPN.
Eisen left ESPN in a bold leap of faith to join the then–brand-new NFL Network. Over the years, he has often shared how heavily others questioned that decision.
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The gamble paid off. Eisen became the face of the now very successful NFL Network, which launched in June 2003.
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He went on to anchor flagship programs such as NFL Total Access and NFL Gameday, among others. Since then, he has built a strong personal brand that includes his annual charity 40-yard dash and a popular podcast.
Feb 24, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rich Eisen (left) interviews Baltimore Ravens coach Jesse Minter at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
One of the most emotional moments of the broadcast may come as Eisen takes the anchor chair without his dear friend, Scott. Over the years, Eisen has spoken with deep admiration for his former colleague.
Following Scott’s passing, Eisen delivered a heartfelt tribute that moved viewers. With this special broadcast, fans of the flagship program may once again reflect on those memorable years.