From OutKick · Bobby Burack · · 1m 40s
ESPN locks in Joe Buck for $108 million
The network's strategy under Jimmy Pitaro concentrates big money on star talent while cutting the middle class.
In brief
The network's strategy under Jimmy Pitaro concentrates big money on star talent while cutting the middle class. ESPN is betting heavily on a few marquee personalities like Joe Buck and Pat McAfee while laying off mid-tier talent, creating a stark two-tier system. Originally reported by OutKick.
ESPN locks in Joe Buck
Joe Buck signed a six-year, $108 million contract extension with ESPN, raising his annual salary from $15 million to $18 million. The deal keeps him through the 2031 Super Bowl.
Buck and Aikman transformed ESPN
Buck and Troy Aikman joined ESPN in 2022 and are now considered the best broadcast duo in sports. Their pairing finally solved ESPN's years-long search for a booth to match competitors.
Aikman's deal expires soon
Troy Aikman signed a five-year, $90 million contract that expires after the Super Bowl in February. ESPN is expected to re-sign him, though negotiations have not yet concluded.
Stars get paid, middle class doesn't
Buck now ties with Aikman as ESPN's third-highest-paid talent behind Stephen A. Smith ($21 million) and Pat McAfee ($30 million). This reflects ESPN's strategy to concentrate money on top personalities.
McAfee's deal dwarfs everyone
Pat McAfee is reportedly in talks for a renewal worth around $65 million per year, far exceeding other on-air talent. His deal includes his daily studio show plus roles on College GameDay and Monday Night Countdown.
Layoffs follow big signings
ESPN laid off multiple on-air talents in July following another round in 2023 that cut 20 on-air personalities. The contrast shows ESPN's two-tier approach under chairman Jimmy Pitaro.
The takeaway
ESPN is betting heavily on a few marquee personalities like Joe Buck and Pat McAfee while laying off mid-tier talent, creating a stark two-tier system.
