Stephen A. Smith hints at an ESPN exit when he publishes an article by Shannon Sharpe calling him the “perfect successor.”

ESPN star Stephen A. Smith gave a glimpse of who he would like to see play his role one day.

The 55-year-old First Take star shared an article on social media on Thursday detailing that Sharpe is the “perfect successor” to Smith.

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Front Office Sports reported that Sharpe is in a good position if Smith ever decides to leave ESPN.

“In one fell swoop, the 55-year-old Sharpe has positioned himself as Smith’s successor.

“If or when the face of ESPN disappears for entertainment, acting or political reasons,” according to the report.

Smith apparently agreed and shared the article on his social media, sparking fears he might leave.

However, Smith still has two years left on his current contract and has expressed his desire to eventually move to late-night television, but no move has been reported.

Smith has been an integral part of ESPN since joining the company in 2003.

Sharpe made his ESPN debut earlier this week after seven years with Fox Sports.

The former NFL star launched his new project alongside Smith on Labor Day.

Sharpe was linked to ESPN throughout the summer after leaving Skip Bayless and the FS1 show Undisputed.

The former NFL tight end will face Stephen A. Smith every Monday and Tuesday this fall.

His former show Undisputed took a two-month hiatus following Sharpe’s departure in June and returned with Keyshawn Johnson, who became Bayless’ new full-time partner.

In the first ratings reviews of the new look show, First Take dominated the Fox Sports show.

According to a report by Front Office SportsFirst Take beat Undisputed by a wide margin.

Undisputed returned with a new look on August 28, attracting 131,000 viewers – while First Take reached 448,000 viewers.

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