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Stephen A. Smith has become one of the most well-recognized figures in sports media over the past decade.
He might not be everyone’s favorite analyst, but because of his hot takes and personality, people tend to listen to him.
ESPN is well aware of what Smith brings to the table, and they are reportedly working hard to keep him on their staff.
As Front Office Sports writer Michael McCarthy recently reported via NBA Central, Smith’s next contract with ESPN could be “worth up to $125 million.”
Stephen A. Smith could land a five-year deal worth up to $125 million on his next contract with ESPN, per @MMcCarthyREV
“Sources have relayed that his new compensation could eventually come in between $20 million and $25 million per year over five years, compared to five years,… pic.twitter.com/Pz2dupiJmM
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 9, 2024
This would put Smith’s yearly earnings between $20-$25 million, making him the highest earner at the company, at least in terms of on-air talent.
McCarthy pointed out that Smith’s deals tower over the likes of Pat McAfee, Troy Aikman, and Joe Buck.
It will be interesting to see if there is any fallback from this massive contract, especially after ESPN’s mass layoffs in recent years.
Fans reacted to this news on Twitter, which could be an indication of what’s coming in the next few months.
Acting like this dude is an all-star tv host….
— LoonMuse (@KevonLooneyMuse) July 9, 2024
Wow! That’s more than what the Warriors were willing to pay Klay
— JBond (@jbondwagon) July 9, 2024
I get it, but isn’t ESPN laying people off? Like couldn’t these salaries be cut just a bit to help fund people to stay working & more comprehensively cover sports?
— NKY Bracket Guy (@BracketNky) July 9, 2024
Stephen A making NBA player type money
— RJ (@phisportfanatic) July 9, 2024
Some fans were excited that Smith signed a massive contract, but many expressed concern for a myriad of reasons.
Smith’s potential contract is more than a lot of professional athletes, a sign that TV personalities mean a lot to networks.
It is also a sign that ESPN is willing to dole out a lot of cash for some people, but when it comes to retaining others, they were more apt to letting them go to keep people like Smith.
The post Fans React To Stephen A. Smith’s Potential Next Contract With ESPN appeared first on The Cold Wire.