The Score is adding a new piece to its morning lineup. Jarrett Payton has been selected to replace Mike Mulligan starting next week.
What We Know: 104.3 The Score fired longtime morning co-host Mike Mulligan and midday co-host Marshall Harris on Friday. Payton, a WGN sports anchor for more than a decade, announced his own departure from GN Sports in July. He’ll join David Haugh on mornings starting August 31. Haugh is currently on a planned vacation, and will remain in morning drive. Moreover, Payton is the son of the late NFL Hall of Famer and Chicago Bear Walter Payton. He brings extensive broadcasting experience alongside a background in business, public speaking, and philanthropy through the Jarrett Payton Foundation.
What They Said: Jarrett Payton: “I’m truly excited and deeply honored to join the team at The Score. I’m looking forward to working alongside everyone there and connecting with the loyal listeners who make this station what it is. This place has always felt like family to me. My dad graced these airwaves back in the ’90s, and the thought of being part of that same legacy means everything. Grateful beyond words for this opportunity. Let’s get to work.”
Mitch Rosen, Vice President and Brand Manager, 104.3 The Score: “Today marks an exciting new chapter for The Score. We’re excited to welcome Jarrett Payton and believe his experience, perspective and deep connection to Chicago and its great fan bases will be a tremendous addition to our morning show alongside David Haugh.”
What Remains Unclear: The station did not state who will replace Mulligan’s role on the station’s Sunday gameday programming surrounding the Chicago Bears.
What It Means: This shakeup signals a big shift at The Score. Losing a veteran voice such as Mulligan after a two decade run with the station doesn’t help matters. Moreover, replacing Mulligan with Payton adds a unique presence to the station. His father was a frequent guest on the station during his playing days. Jarrett Payton also has long ties to the station as well with guest appearances and co-host opportunities. In addition, landing Payton gives mornings a recognizable name with deep Chicago sports roots. But ultimately, The Score appears to be betting on star power and familiarity as it resets its schedule.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.