Potential split between NFL broadcasters Joe Buck and Troy Aikman raises questions for ESPN's upcoming Super Bowl coverage
Reports indicate a contract dispute may separate longtime ESPN duo Joe Buck and Troy Aikman, prompting speculation about future broadcast line-ups for major NFL games.
Joe Buck and Troy Aikman, who have called NFL games together for about 25 years, may part ways after ESPN finalized a new contract for Buck but has not yet reached an agreement with Aikman. Sources say Aikman is seeking a salary increase from $18 million to $30 million annually, and tensions reportedly surfaced before a recent Rams-Bills matchup. If the partnership ends, ESPN will need to assign a new color commentator for its first Super Bowl broadcast this season. The network has not confirmed any replacement or the outcome of the negotiations.
Analysts note that the duo has called six Super Bowls and hundreds of regular-season games, and their separation could affect viewers accustomed to their joint commentary. ESPN has not released official statements regarding the dispute or potential changes to its broadcast team.