Troy Aikman’s ESPN Future Sparks Speculation, but Exit is Unlikely
WHO:
NY Post - Troy Aikman is an ESPN NFL analyst and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback; Peyton Manning is ESPN’s reported top candidate to replace him on “Monday Night Football” (MNF).
Pro Football Network - Andrew Marchand is a media insider who said Manning replacing Aikman was “probably more unlikely than likely.”
Pro Football Network - Joe Buck and Aikman are MNF broadcasters whose partnership and future at ESPN are in question.
Pro Football Network - Ryan Glasspiegel expressed concern about Aikman potentially leaving ESPN.
Pro Football Network - Jimmy Traina assessed the possibility of Aikman leaving ESPN before the network’s first Super Bowl broadcast.
Pro Football Network - Al Michaels was mentioned as a possible broadcasting partner for Aikman at Amazon.
Pro Football Network - Tony Romo is a CBS commentator whose deal was reported at $180 million.
Newsweek - Joe Buck appeared ready to continue without Aikman if Aikman does not sign a new ESPN contract.
WHAT:
NY Post - ESPN may have to bend its own rules to pursue Manning as Aikman’s replacement in the MNF booth.
Pro Football Network - Reports describe an expected MNF split between Buck and Aikman, while Marchand disputed the likelihood of Manning replacing Aikman.
Pro Football Network - Articles describe uncertainty over Aikman’s ESPN contract and his broadcasting future, and criticism of ESPN’s handling of negotiations.
Pro Football Network - Analysts and fans debated a possible Aikman move to Amazon Prime Video; another report raised NBC’s Sunday Night Football as a possible destination and said NBC was not going to pay.
Pro Football Network - A reporter urged ESPN to sign Aikman, calling him “the best NFL game analyst.”
Pro Football Network - Marchand discussed deterioration in Buck and Aikman’s 25-year partnership, citing “very large egos” and “a brew of discontent.”
Pro Football Network - Marchand discussed why Romo’s CBS commentary went “backwards” after his $180 million deal.
Newsweek - Buck took what the article characterized as a subtle shot at Aikman amid MNF shakeup rumors.
WHEN:
Pro Football Network - One article discussed whether Aikman could leave ESPN before Super Bowl LXI; another said his potential ESPN departure could follow Super Bowl 61.
WHY:
Pro Football Network - Aikman’s future is uncertain amid stalled contract talks and the unresolved status of his ESPN deal.
Pro Football Network - Reports attribute strain in Buck and Aikman’s relationship to large egos and discontent.
HOW:
NY Post - ESPN may need to make an exception to its own rules to land Manning.
Pro Football Network - Aikman’s possible departure and replacement have been discussed as potential changes to ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and NBC broadcast booths.
Troy Aikman’s ESPN future is uncertain as contract talks stall, fueling split reports. Peyton Manning is ESPN’s reported leading replacement, though an insider doubts the move. Joe Buck may continue without Aikman, whose next home remains unclear.