“I love the guy” - Shannon Sharpe defends Steve Smith Sr. after affair allegations surface online

The former NFL legends Shannon Sharpe and Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson shared their thoughts on the infidelity allegations revolving around Steve Smith Sr. on a recent episode of Nightcap.

Steve Smith Sr., who is the current NFL Network analyst has been accused of having an extramarital affair with a woman associated with the Baltimore Ravens Marching Band. The allegations were made by Tony Martinez, who claims to be the woman's husband.

Expressing his views on Smith during the podcast which was aired on February 24, 2025, Sharpe said:

“I’ve known Smitty 20 years. He was just at my party at the Super Bowl, had a great conversation with him. I love the guy,” he said. “Hard nosed, the way he plays, X, Y and Z. But bro, you need to take that up with your wife. Smitty owes you no loyalty.”

“He’s gonna have to deal with the situation at home, his own situation. I don’t know the gentleman’s name, but that’s a situation you gotta take up with your wife. She is the one that has an obligation to you.” He continued, as reported by New York Post.

While Johnson agreed with Sharpe and added that “Steve Smith owes you no loyalty,” and that the accuser “needs to check his wife.”

Sharpe’s defense for Smith highlights the closeness of their bond which the two former NFL players have shared over the years. Fans are surprised by their reactions to Steve Smith Sr.’s controversy.

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How have netizens reacted to Shanon Sharpe and Chad Johnson’s views on the allegations revolving around Steve Smith Sr.?

Netizens have given mixed reactions to Shanon Sharpe and Chad Johnson’s views on the infidelity allegations surrounding Steve Smith Sr. While some slammed them for supporting Smith others sided with Smith.

“Crazy how Unc or Ocho didn't say Steve was wrong.” A user wrote on X

“these guys don’t even understand what the other guy was doing let alone what basic decency is.” One user said.

“Lost a lot of respect for these guys for not holding their fellow peer accountable. Steve smith says he’s a “Christian”, religiously and morally what steve smith did was wrong.” A third commented.

“No lie if Steve knew she was married he should’ve left her alone.. He didn’t just break up one family.. His own family could be in jeopardy.” A fourth added.

However, a few people believed that the podcasters were right in their opinions and the main motive of the man was to ruin Steve Smith Sr.'s marriage.

“Of course they protect their fellow player. Dudes wife is def the culprit, but if his marriage is dead, may as well burn Steve’s down in the process. If he was smart he would’ve got some cash out of Steve sent off shore then divorced his wife.” Wrote a person who agreed with their views.

“Imagine in all that painting Steve Smith as the person being wronged.” Another chimed in.

“I think his goal was to ruin steves marriage. Otherwise it makes no sense to do that.” A user wrote on Instagram.

“I agree with Ocho!!!” One more person said.

As of now, there has been no word from Steve Smith Sr. on the ongoing allegations involving him and the woman with whom he was allegedly involved. Reportedly, Smith has been married to Angie Smith since 2000 and they share four children.