Football fans have spent two decades hearing the same two voices call the biggest games, and now that partnership might be on its last snap. Joe Buck and Troy Aikman have worked together since 2002, moving as a package deal from Fox to ESPN’s Monday Night Football in 2022. With their combined $165 million contract expiring, ESPN extended Buck for a reported $100 million through 2033 while, according to reports, not offering Aikman a new deal.
The imbalance reportedly sparked tension, including an argument between the two before last week’s Rams/Bills broadcast, though both have stayed professional on air. Aikman confirmed he’ll finish the season and become a free agent at year’s end, saying he’ll“see what happens.”Meanwhile, fans have turned into amateur detectives, scanning every Monday night broadcast for awkward pauses and forced smiles.
Adding to the drama: ESPN airs the Super Bowl this season, meaning the biggest game in football could double as this duo’s farewell. Two decades of chemistry, a hundred million dollars on one side of the booth, and a free agent on the other. Football season just got a whole second storyline, and it has nothing to do with the playoffs.
What’s your take: should ESPN lock up Aikman, or is it time for both guys to move on? Sound off in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.