Shannon Sharpe reportedly out at ESPN after settlement of sexual assault suit

• Sharpe will not return to ESPN, per multiple reports

• Departure follows settlement in sexual assault suit

• Hall of Fame tight end last appeared on air in April

Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN, ending the Pro Football Hall of Famer's brief but high-profile run as a commentator on the network's First Take sports-talk program. The decision comes less than two weeks after Sharpe settled a lawsuit filed by a former girlfriend who accused him of rape, allegations he forcefully denied.

The Athletic was first to report the move on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the matter. ESPN declined to comment publicly, and no formal announcement has been made.