Hall of Fame tight end and media personality Shannon Sharpe stepped aside from his two-days-per-week employment with ESPN, in the aftermath of the filing of a civil complaint against him alleging sexual assault and other claims.

Shannon Sharpe is facing a $50 million lawsuit alleging sexual assault, which he denies. Despite the allegations, his former co-host Stephen A. Smith publicly voiced his support, stating he believes in Sharpe's innocence and offered his friendship.

Stephen A. Smith is speaking out in strong support of his “First Take” co-host Shannon Sharpe, as Sharpe faces serious sexual assault allegations that have generated intense public scrutiny and media attention.