Jarrett Payton is leaving WGN. The longtime sports anchor announced Thursday he’s stepping away after a decade at the station.
What We Know: Payton joined WGN-TV in 2015 and spent 10 years as sports anchor and GN Sports co-anchor. Payton is the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Walter Payton. Payton was also a key contributor to both 104.3 The Score and ESPN Chicago during his time in Chicago sports media. He announced the exit on social media, framing it as a family decision. Meanwhile, he credited several WGN and Nexstar leaders for shaping his career. However, he stopped short of naming his next move.
What They Said: Jarrett Payton (via X): “After 10 meaningful years at WGN, I’ve made the decision to step away from the station. This choice comes from the heart. I want to spend more time with my family. They are the most important part of my world.”
Jarrett Payton (via X): “Even as I step away, I’m still looking for ways to stay connected to the station I love. I do so with a heart full of gratitude, excitement, and hope. Here’s to more time with family, new beginnings, and whatever comes next.”
What Remains Unclear: Payton didn’t specify a last day on air, so the transition timeline stays open. Additionally, he hinted at staying “connected to the station,” without detailing how.
What It Means: Payton’s exit removes a decade-long fixture from Chicago sports coverage. Still, his emphasis on family over departure friction suggests an amicable split rather than a contentious exit. Meanwhile, WGN now faces a notable vacancy in its sports lineup. Ultimately, his next chapter — broadcasting or otherwise — will shape how this transition is remembered.
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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.