I will be devoting this time to my family, and responding and dealing with these false and disruptive allegations set against me. I plan to return to ESPN at the start of the NFL preseason.” - Shannon Sharpe.

Shannon Sharpe said he is stepping aside from ESPN role while 'dealing with these false and disruptive allegations.'

A statement from Sharpe's lawyer said the relationship was consensual and called the lawsuit a "blatant and cynical attempt to shake down" Sharpe for millions of dollars.