Sports columnist and writer Jason Whitlock was poised to lead The Undefeated, a bold venture for ESPN focusing on race and sports. According to the major cable sports network, Whitlock, who was handpicked to lead the new site, is now out as its editor-in-chief.
Earlier this year, ESPN rolled out teaser pieces from The Undefeated with a pair of big features featuring Washington Wizards star John Wall and retired NBA legend Charles Barkley. With heavy fanfare, ESPN promised that the site would be Whitlock’s to command and tackle the writer’s familiar themes. However, some critics of Whitlock balked at the choice of he leading the site as he’s been known for some of his strong and often racially critical opinions.
But a press release from ESPN announced the reassignment of Whitlock to other duties for the network while naming a new daily manager for the site.
More from the press release:
To that end, Jason Whitlock will now be entirely focused on what he does best: creating distinctive and compelling content, which will live across various ESPN platforms. Jason’s thought-provoking perspective has always been a hallmark of his work and this will allow him to completely devote his time and energy to that. As a result, he will make significant contributions to multiple ESPN entities and programs.
As noted in the release, former New York Daily News and ESPN New York sports editor Leon Carter will assume the role of editor-in-chief on an interim basis.
—
Photo: ESPN/TheUndefeated.com
