Because millions of people care intensely about NFL football, they have similarly strong feelings about the voices that narrate the action on TV. And the sudden escalation of tensions between Troy Aikman and ESPN/ABC has many wondering if the relationship will end before his current contract expires.
Boomer Esiason raised the question this week on his WFAN morning show if Aikman would leave.
“I don’t think he wouldit’s not his nature, I don’t think,” Esiason said Friday, via Brandon Contes of Terrible announcement.
Of course, it may not be Aikman’s choice. ESPN can take him off the air anytime they want if the situation continues to deteriorate. Of course, they will have to replace it on the fly. But they currently have a small army of NFL voices on the payroll — many of whom will drive a lawnmower through a minefield for a chance to fill the seat.
It’s hard to imagine Aikman leaving in a Super Bowl year. But if he gets frustrated enough with the situation, he can’t be ruled out.
Much depends on whether any of the apparent hostility will make it onto the air. For now, there isn’t. But everyone who is aware of the situation (and, frankly, many who watch Monday Night Football they are not and will not be) will watch and listen for any hint in any stray comment or pointed remark.
After all, it takes two to tango in any working relationship. And if both parties know the music will stop once the confetti falls in LA on Valentine’s Day, an early record scratch is possible.
In some respects, it is already happening.
