Craig Carton’s expected return to WFAN has generated strong reaction across New York sports media, including from Barstool Sports personality Kevin “KFC” Clancy, who called the move “necessary” for the station while warning that it does not solve WFAN’s long-term challenges.
Carton is reportedly finalizing a deal to reclaim the afternoon drive slot beginning next year, according to The Athletic. It would mark his third stint at the station and his second time leading one of WFAN’s signature franchise positions. The move comes as WFAN seeks to stabilize ratings, reset its lineup, and regain its foothold in an increasingly competitive New York media landscape.
“This was a necessary move for WFAN,” Clancy says. “Now I don’t think this addresses the major issues of WFAN, which is that they are a terrestrial radio station trying to operate in a modern world, and have not pivoted to the digital platforms at all. That’s an entire other problem that needs to be fixed.”
WFAN’s reported restructuring would shift Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber to the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. slot. The move places them against ESPN New York’s midday show. Chris McMonigle has also emerged as the top internal candidate to join Carton, signaling WFAN’s desire to pair him with a host familiar to loyal listeners.
Carton has remained open about the possibility of returning to WFAN since leaving FS1’s Breakfast Ball, telling Barrett Media in September that he would “certainly answer that phone call” if the station wanted him back. His ongoing podcast venture with FOX Sports and Red Seat Ventures could also factor into any final agreement.
Still, while Clancy praised Carton’s on-air skills and his history at the station, he stressed that WFAN’s long-term success will hinge on its willingness to evolve beyond traditional radio. He said he hopes Carton’s presence will push WFAN to embrace digital audiences more aggressively.
“Would love to see him on YouTube. I would love to see him doing a podcast. I would love to see him doing short-form video,” Clancy said. “That is much better for the long-term success of WFAN, and it’s a station I deeply care about. It was a part of my childhood.”
Carton’s return also carries emotional weight for longtime listeners who followed his rise, fall, and resurgence. Clancy acknowledged the turbulence in Carton’s career. He said hearing Carton back on WFAN would be a win for New York sports fans.
“Congratulations to Craig Carton,” Clancy said. “It’s been a long road and a lot of tumultuous ups and downs, and the fact that he’s going to be back where he belongs is a win not only for him, but all sports radio fans in New York.”
WFAN has not commented publicly on the reported changes.
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