Hoda Kotb's Departure Kotb steps down from "Today" to focus on family after six impactful years

Legacy of Connection Her warm style and motherhood stories transformed the show's appeal

Importance of Replacement NBC must find a successor to maintain its lead over "Good Morning America

Jenna Bush Hager Hager's chemistry with Kotb and relatable persona make her a strong candidate

Laura Jarrett Jarrett's legal expertise could enhance hard news coverage on the show

Sheinelle Jones Jones’ down-to-earth approach and loyalty to the show would bolster diversity

Challenges for Geist and Daly Both face concerns due to political ties and limited hard news experience