New York ? Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh resigned from ESPN Wednesday night, three days after saying Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb was overrated because the media wanted to see a black quarterback succeed.

Earlier Wednesday, Democratic presidential candidates Wesley Clark, Howard Dean and Rev. Al Sharpton called for the cable sports network to fire Limbaugh.

“My comments this past Sunday were directed at the media and were not racially motivated,” Limbaugh said in a statement Wednesday night. “I offered an opinion. This opinion has caused discomfort to the crew, which I regret.

“I love ‘NFL Sunday Countdown’ and do not want to be a distraction to the great work done by all who work on it.

“Therefore, I have decided to resign. I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of the show and wish all the best to those who make it happen.”

George Bodenheimer, president of ESPN and ABC Sports, accepted the resignation.

“We regret the circumstances surrounding this,” he said in a statement. “We believe that he took the appropriate action to resolve this matter expeditiously.”

McNabb had said earlier Wednesday he didn’t mind criticism of his performance. He was upset Limbaugh made his race an issue and said it was too late for an apology.

“It’s somewhat shocking to hear that on national TV from him,” McNabb said. “It’s not something that I can sit here and say won’t bother me.”

Limbaugh insisted earlier Wednesday he had “no racist intent whatsoever.” In fact, he said he must have been right; otherwise, the comments would not have sparked such outrage.

Before McNabb led the Eagles to a 23-13 victory over the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Limbaugh said on ESPN’s pregame show that he didn’t think McNabb was as good as perceived.

“I think what we’ve had here is a little social concern in the NFL. The media has been very desirous that a black quarterback do well,” Limbaugh said.