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Is Tom Pelissero being laid off from ESPN? All we know about his salary and net worth

ESPN's layoffs reportedly affect Tom Pelissero, a prominent NFL insider.

Published on: Jul 21, 2026, 21:12:32 IST
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NFL insider Tom Pelissero is reportedly among the employees affected by ESPN’s latest round of layoffs, months after the sports network completed its acquisition of NFL Media assets. The reported exit has sparked interest in Pelissero’s career, earnings and what could be next for one of the NFL’s most recognizable reporters.

Tom Pelissero joined NFL Media in 2017, where he contributed to NFL Network and NFL.com. (X/ @NFL_DovKleiman)
Tom Pelissero joined NFL Media in 2017, where he contributed to NFL Network and NFL.com. (X/ @NFL_DovKleiman)

According to USA Today, Pelissero is expected to be part of ESPN’s layoffs on Tuesday, July 21.

ESPN has not publicly confirmed individual departures.

Pelissero’s reported exit comes less than six months after ESPN officially acquired NFL Media and its assets from the NFL in a multi-billion-dollar deal, a move that brought several NFL Network personalities under ESPN’s umbrella.

Tom Pelissero’s NFL career

Pelissero joined NFL Media in 2017, where he contributed to NFL Network and NFL.com before becoming one of the league’s most prominent insiders. He worked alongside fellow reporters Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo and was part of NFL Media’s The Insiders podcast.

Also Read: Why is ESPN firing Karl Ravech? Uproar erupts as network begins layoffs, ‘RIP, Classic Sportscenter’

Before moving to national NFL coverage, Pelissero built his reputation through local reporting. According to The Big Deal, he covered the Minnesota Vikings for KFAN.com before joining the Green Bay Press-Gazette to report on the Packers.

Over the years, Pelissero became known for breaking league news. In January 2026, The New York Post cited Pelissero’s reporting on the NFL’s projected salary cap increase, noting that the league had informed teams the 2026 cap could rise to between $301.2 million and $305.7 million per team, up from $279.2 million in 2025.

What is Tom Pelissero’s net worth?

Pelissero’s exact net worth is not publicly known.

While some websites have published estimated figures, there are no verified records or official disclosures from Pelissero, NFL Network or ESPN confirming his wealth.

Pelissero’s salary as an NFL insider has also not been publicly revealed.

His long-running role at NFL Media, television appearances and work across multiple platforms indicate a successful broadcasting career, but no confirmed figure is available for his annual compensation.

According to The Big Deal, Pelissero has also hosted shows for SiriusXM and ESPN Radio, adding to his media work beyond NFL Network coverage.

Also Read: Kendrick Perkins takes dual role with Jackson State while continuing ESPN analyst duties

Where could Tom Pelissero go next?

Pelissero could become one of the most sought-after names in sports media if he leaves ESPN.

Front Office Sports reported that Pelissero is expected to attract interest in the free-agent market, with possible destinations including The Athletic, CBS, Netflix and Amazon’s Thursday Night Football coverage.

ESPN has reportedly already signed Ian Rapoport to a new deal and is nearing an agreement with Mike Garafolo, according to Glasspiegel. The two are expected to join ESPN’s existing NFL insider lineup featuring Adam Schefter, Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano.

For now, Pelissero’s reported ESPN departure remains unconfirmed by the network

  • Prakriti Deb
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Prakriti Deb

    Prakriti Deb is a journalist at Hindustan Times Digital, where she is part of the US Desk. She works on stories related to American politics, crime, sports, entertainment and weather. She particularly enjoys covering political developments that have global ripples. Through her work, she aims to break down complex events in a way that feels simple and understandable. Before joining the Hindustan Times, she worked with The Indian Express Digital, where she covered world affairs. She holds a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication with a specialisation in Journalism, along with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature. Outside the newsroom, Prakriti enjoys travelling and stepping out of her comfort zone. She finds her sense of being through storytelling in all its forms, including conversations, painting, theatre, dance and photography. She appreciates discussions that challenge her perspective and help her see the world a little differently.Read More

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