ESPN host Monica McNutt made an on-air error during a live segment with influencer Drew ‘Druski’ Desbordes, causing a viral moment and significant public reaction. The segment, which aired on Saturday, saw Desbordes wearing a jersey of former Detroit Lions legend Barry Sanders, a former NFL running back known for his No. 20 jersey. McNutt, however, misidentified the jersey as belonging to Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who also happens to wear the No. 20 jersey in the NFL. This error led to Desbordes stepping in to correct her, highlighting the confusion between these two distinct individuals.
The mix-up sparked immediate criticism on social media platforms, where numerous commentators and fans took to platforms like X to mock the error. Among the vocal critics were Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports and Clay Travis of OutKick, who both pointed out the mistake as a glaring example of the host’s inattention. This incident is not the first time McNutt has faced backlash for her remarks. In March, she faced controversy when she suggested that Caitlin Clark’s popularity was partly due to her being a ‘White girl from the middle of America.’ This comment was widely criticized as being racially insensitive and out of touch with the realities of her sport.
The error by McNutt has reignited discussions about her professional conduct and public perception. While the segment was intended to be a lighthearted appearance, the mistake turned it into a moment of significant public scrutiny. The incident underscores the importance of accuracy in media, especially for hosts who are expected to maintain a certain level of professionalism and knowledge in their field. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains a reminder of the high stakes and public expectations placed on media personalities.