ESPN has reportedly hired a top editor away from one of its biggest digital rivals. Sergio Gonzalez is leaving The Athletic to become ESPN’s VP of digital editorial.
What We Know: Gonzalez joined The Athletic in 2018 as senior managing editor of its NBA content. Then, in 2023, the outlet promoted him to one of three editorial director positions. Before that, he worked at CBS Sports, building two decades of experience as a writer and editor. Now, he will start his new role at ESPN later this month. So far, neither Gonzalez nor ESPN executives have offered public comment on the hire.
What’s At Stake: With Gonzalez’ hire, he will lead the editorial operations for the network. That includes it’s wide roster of reporters and insiders across ESPN.com and social platforms. Gonzalez hire is just the second major addition since new EVP of studio and entertainment Mike Foss took over following the departure of David Roberts.
What Remains Unclear: ESPN has not detailed how Gonzalez’s NBA-heavy background will shape its digital coverage. Likewise, ESPN also has not named an exact start date.
What It Means: Ultimately, Gonzalez is ESPN’s top newsroom hire since it eliminated Roxanna Scott’s SVP, editor-in-chief role in August. As a result, he fills a significant leadership gap on the digital side. Moreover, ESPN is pulling proven talent directly from a major competitor. Taken together, the move signals renewed investment in ESPN’s digital newsroom.
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