Courtney CroninCourtney Cronin (Photo Via X/@CourtneyRCronin)
Courtney Cronin walked into ESPN’s “First Take” on Thursday morning, and within minutes, the conversation wasn’t just about sports. It was about her.

The award-winning journalist, filling in for Molly Qerim, didn’t just step up to the plate- she owned the set. And yes, she did it wearing a head-turning, all-pink ensemble that had fans talking before the show even started.

Cronin, who’s no stranger to NFL reporting or sharp on-air analysis, took a bold swing on Thursday and connected in more ways than one. Her vibrant monochromatic pink outfit had social media buzzing well before the first segment aired. She posted the fit on Instagram ahead of the broadcast, and the response was instant.

An Eye-Catching Moment With Staying Power

Molly Qerim’s ‘First Take’ Fill-In Steals The SpotlightCourtney Cronin (Photo Via Instagram/@courtneyrcronin)

Known for her detailed NFL coverage, Cronin has spent years building a reputation with strong reporting chops. She joined ESPN in 2017 and has since covered both the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears. Prior to that, she reported for the San Jose Mercury News, covering West Coast powerhouses like the Golden State Warriors, San Francisco 49ers and San Jose Sharks.

 

On Thursday, she reminded everyone that presence matters as much as perspective. Fans quickly praised her in the comments section.

“You look magnificent as ever Courtney!!!” one wrote.

Another chimed in, “Courtney is the baddest boss woman true BBW”

A third nailed the overall sentiment, saying, “Yay! Taking over First Take!”

While Cronin is often seen delivering thoughtful insights on “SportsCenter” or going toe-to-toe on “Around the Horn,” this appearance felt different. She brought the energy, confidence, and poise usually reserved for ESPN’s most seasoned hosts.

Though ESPN has yet to reveal its long-term plans for Cronin, viewers might not have to wait long to see more of her. She’s back hosting “First Take” again Friday, and with “Around the Horn” ending in May, fans are already speculating about what’s next. One fan put it simply: “I look for Courtney to take an even bigger role on First Take or maybe Pardon the Interruption.” If Thursday’s showing was any indication, Courtney Cronin isn’t just filling in. She’s stepping forward.