After Tony Romo signed a lucrative contract to remain with CBS, ESPN revealed their plans to partner Al Michaels and Peyton Manning on Monday Night Football. However, after attempting to acquire him, NBC has rejected the trade efforts from ESPN for Michaels.
Due to Michaels still being under contract with NBC, ESPN would have to acquire the rights to the renowned broadcaster. Michaels still has two years remaining on his contract and it is set to expire after Super Bowl 56 in Los Angeles. When his contract is up, Michaels could be sought after, if he chooses to continue his broadcasting career.
Nevertheless, ESPN was interested in having Michaels move from Sunday Night Football for NBC, to Monday nights. But after their efforts to pry him from their competitor, they were denied by NBC.
Despite not being able to land Michaels, ESPN still has their sights on adding Manning to their booth for next season. Last week, it was reported that ESPN is prepared to offer Manning upwards of $20 million annually for the Monday Night Football gig.
Of course, Romo apparently reset the market for former players in the booth, commanding $180 million over 10 years with CBS. While it remains to be seen if Manning is interested, he could be a nice addition to ESPN.
This past season, ESPN featured a booth on Monday nights that included the likes of Joe Tessitore and Booger McFarland. Following an outcry from fans to replace them, ESPN is doing everything they can to improve the product they have on Monday Night Football. To the dismay of ESPN, their plan of pairing Michaels and Manning won't be a reality.
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