NYC Radio: ESPN’s Don La Greca Blasts WFAN’s Latest Move

WFAN is bringing back polarizing host Craig Carton to afternoon drive in early 2026, a move that immediately drew fierce criticism from rival ESPN New York’s Don La Greca, who branded the decision “a huge mistake” and “horrible” for pushing out popular hosts Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata.

Speaking on his December 2 show, La Greca called the shakeup a perfect example of everything wrong with sports radio: “This business is in a really bad spot right now… Two guys that work their ass off, have families, and it sounds like two empty chairs when the music stops. That sucks.”

The Audacy-owned station confirmed Carton, 56, will pair with overnight host Chris McMonigle in the 2–7 p.m. slot. That forces current afternoon team Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber to middays (12–2 p.m.), directly against ESPN New York’s Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg show. 

Tierney and Licata, whose 6–10 p.m. program had built a loyal following with sharp Mets, Jets, and Knicks takes, appear to be the odd men out with no announced roles.

Carton’s return marks his third stint at WFAN. He previously co-hosted the blockbuster Boomer and Carton morning show (2007–2017) until his 2017 arrest and conviction on fraud charges that sent him to prison. After a post-release comeback with Evan Roberts and a failed FS1 TV show that was canceled this summer, Carton is now being positioned as the station’s afternoon savior.

The move has split New York sports radio fans and insiders. Supporters believe Carton’s brash style can recapture drive-time energy and ratings; critics, led by La Greca, argue it sacrifices two homegrown, hardworking talents for a controversial figure with a checkered past. 

As of today, Tierney and Licata remain in limbo, with contracts nearing expiration and no official comment from WFAN or Audacy on their future.