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Craig Carton is close to returning to one of the most high-profile roles in New York sports radio. The former WFAN host is reportedly finalizing a deal to take over the station’s afternoon drive program beginning next year, according to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand.
The move would mark Carton’s third stint at WFAN and his second time leading the afternoon slot, a daypart that has long served as one of the station’s signature franchise positions.
His expected return follows months of internal conversations about revamping the lineup. The station hopes to strengthen ratings, boost advertiser demand, and regain momentum in a competitive New York media landscape.
Under the reported changes, Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber would shift to the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. block. The move would be Roberts’ second major schedule change in two years and would place the duo against ESPN New York’s midday show.
Meanwhile, Carton is reported to have a new partner. FAN overnight host Chris McMonigle has emerged as the leading candidate to join him. According to the reporting, McMonigle’s growing on-air profile, familiarity with WFAN’s core audience and ability to handle high-volume caller segments have been viewed internally as key strengths.
Carton spoke to Barrett Media in September about a possible return to WFAN. Following months of speculation about a possible return following the cancelation of Breakfast Ball on FS1.
“I’m not surprised because I made my name at WFAN. The mornings with Boomer [Esiason], and the two and a half years in afternoons with Evan [Roberts],” said Carton. “I’m not surprised that people who like me and enjoy what I do would immediately ask the question. Well, he left WFAN to go to FOX. If he’s leaving FOX, is there a potential for a return? I’m not surprised those conversations happened amongst people who follow sports media.”
When asked if he would consider a return at the time to WFAN, Carton kept his options open.
“I’m blessed to be a New York radio hall of famer. I know I do it really well, and I enjoy doing it,” said Carton. “If the opportunity arose where WFAN would want to bring me back, I would certainly answer that phone call.”
One of the considerations that Carton said had to be considered in any discussions about a return to WFAN would be the future of his Craig Carton Show podcast. That venture started in September through FOX Sports and Red Seat Ventures. It includes former 97.5 The Fanatic host Tyrone Johnson.
“If my phone rang and somebody says we’re big fans of yours on radio. Are you available? Can we have the conversation? Obviously, I would have the conversation. I would be silly not to,” explained Carton. “So if that opportunity presents itself to do radio and it doesn’t have a negative impact on the podcast I just started, I would certainly have those conversations. If there’s an ability to do both, I would certainly consider it. Today my focus is on doing the best podcast I can for Red Seat and FOX Sports.”
Carton has not responded to correspondence to the report. While the deal is reportedly not yet finalized, the current mid-day team of Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata is expected to be removed from the schedule entirely.
It is unclear whether WFAN plans to reassign either host within the organization or if the move will lead to broader talent changes. Tierney and Licata have hosted the slot since 2022.
WFAN also has not commented on the report.
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