The Dallas Cowboys were surprised ahead of the 2018 NFL Draft when veteran tight end Jason Witten let it be known he intends to retire after 15 seasons with America's Team. Although Witten has indicated a desire to play as long as he can, the temptation join ESPN as an analyst on Monday Night Football to replace Jon Gruden seems to be something he's not willing to pass on.

However, it appears the gig with ESPN isn't the only broadcasting opportunity that available for Witten if he ultimately chooses to retire as a player. According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen, has another network interested in his services.

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At this point, the Cowboys brass is doing all they can to try to convince Witten to return for at least one more season. Witten's value to the team is immeasurable as his impact on the franchise is felt as much if not more off the field as it is on the field.

Losing Witten to retirement and a gig on ESPN or another network is a significant blow for a team that is trying to take the next step with two talented young players leading the way in Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott.

As owner Jerry Jones and head coach Jason Garrett make their final pleas to get him to return, the Cowboys can only wait for Witten to make his decision on whether to continue being the undisputed leader of the squad or follow in Tony Romo's footsteps to embark on a broadcasting career.