MSNBC’s future lineup muddied even more as network considers Shepard Smith

After earlier reports that MSNBC wants to move ratings challenged “MTP Daily” to mornings, staffers are bracing for the possibility of more changes as execs reportedly met with Shepard Smith.

• Smith, who left Fox’s conservative cable channel in 2019 in a surprise move, has reportedly met with MSNBC president Phil Griffin, reports The Daily Beast.
• Smith is reportedly under a stiff non-compete clause after being asked to be let out of his Fox contract.
• Reports say that other networks, including CNN, are also pursuing him, though he’s expected to come with a hefty cost.
• Some insiders say Smith would be want a primetime slot — not a 5 p.m. slot like “MTP Daily” currently occupies.

There is also reportedly talk about moving Stephanie Ruhle, who just inked a new deal as NBC’s senior business correspondent, to the 3 p.m. slot, where should could lend her experience as the markets prepare to close.

• The 3 p.m. slot will be open once Ali Velshi moves to weekends and fill-in weekday anchoring and other reports say former NPR correspondent Joshua Jackson could take that spot.
• Meanwhile, execs are reportedly also considering expanding Nicolle Wallace’s well rated “Deadline: White House” to two hours — from 4 to 6 p.m., taking over “MTP Daily” from Chuck Todd.
• Todd, who also moderates “Meet the Press” on Sundays on NBC, is reportedly resistant to any change to his MSNBC timeslot and may want to just go back to sticking with his main gig.
• These moves could potentially open up some time during dayside on the network.

That still doesn’t really resolve where Smith might fit into this scenario if he does in fact end up getting a primetime deal.

• “All In” kicks off primetime at 8 p.m. followed by powerhouse “The Rachel Maddow Show,” and it’s doubtful MSNBC would explore tinkering with Maddow’s timeslot given that the show manages to best Fox in certain ratings demos.
• “The Last Word” follows at 10 p.m. with “The 11th Hour” at 11 p.m.
• While these other primetime shows perform well, they aren’t necessarily breakout hits, so moving or shuttering one or more of them to make room for Smith could make some sense.