TROY AIKMAN CONSIDERS TELEVISION EXIT AFTER ESPN CONTRACT

Troy Aikman said there was a “50-50 chance” he would not work in television next year. He made the comment at a Dallas event for Peter King’s book, The Game, according to sports journalist Tim Cowlishaw. Aikman’s ESPN contract expires after the 2026 NFL season, leaving his work calling games in 2027 unsettled. He said he remained interested in broadcasting but was considering other work.

Aikman has called games alongside Joe Buck since 2022 and has worked in broadcasting for more than two decades. His five-year ESPN agreement was reported to be worth $90 million. Buck has received a six-year extension worth a reported $108 million. Aikman said broadcasting was a “great profession” and raised the possibility of working for another network. He also said he had enjoyed spending time with the Miami Dolphins during the past offseason.

Aikman said work with an organisation could be another option if he left broadcasting. “For the first time, I’m kinda open for business, and I’m looking forward to figuring out what those options might be,” he said. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones did not rule out hiring Aikman for a front office role when asked on 27 October. The Cowboys won three Super Bowls with Aikman as their quarterback.