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NESN editorial staffers let go as part of broader series of layoffs at the network
New England Sports Network editorial staffers were informed Monday that the department is being restructured as of May 2 and that they would be laid off.
The editorial cuts, which include the writers, reporters, and editors of NESN.com, were part of a broader series of layoffs across NESN on Monday.
Editorial was the hardest-hit department, but the cuts were connected to the network and Boston Globe Media’s decision to cancel “The Boston Globe Today” television show and lay off four employees.
A NESN spokesperson confirmed that the decisions were part of the same restructuring, saying that they were “part of an overall assessment and strategic pivot to a different model.”
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NESN would not confirm the number of employees affected. The NESN.com website will continue, but with much of the content coming from an outside provider. The network plans to announce details soon on a partnership that will include oversight of NESN.com’s editorial and day-to-day operations.
A network spokesperson provided a statement on the layoffs: “NESN is committed to delivering high-quality content and unparalleled entertainment experiences to New England sports fans. As the media landscape continues to evolve, we have made the decision to refine our operations, focusing on our core content strengths and streamlining our digital capabilities. Unfortunately, this has resulted in the difficult decision to eliminate some positions.
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“We believe these changes will continue to elevate our offering, meet the needs of all of our audiences, and continue to build and grow a sustainable, innovative media business.”
In January 2024, NESN eliminated its Patriots beat writer position and laid off reporter Zach Cox.
Cox, who now covers the Celtics for the Boston Herald, was among several former NESN writers who took to social media to question the decision to cut its editorial staff.
“NESN deciding to cut its entire editorial department is baffling on so many levels,” he posted on X. “I feel for my former co-workers today. Lots of talented writers over there with bright futures in the industry.”
Michael Hurley, a former NESN writer who went on to write for CBS Boston and later was a co-host of “The Rich Shertenlieb Show,” shares Cox’s laments.
“NESN blowing up its website today bums me out in a way I wasn’t prepared for,” he posted on X. “I joined a tiny staff in Feb. 2009 and we worked to build a legitimate site in the best sports market in the world. It’s been the home and springboard for a ton of talented people for 15+ years. Brutal.”
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