Troy Aikman on Monday Night Football
The gist
ESPN Monday Night Football analyst Troy Aikman says he will be a free agent after this season, with his $90 million deal ending in February.
His future in the booth is open, and ESPN's reported top replacement target is Peyton Manning.
How it unfolded
- Oct 14, 2026A report says there has been friction between Buck and Aikman, including an argument in the booth ahead of that week's broadcast, after Buck reached a new six-year deal while Aikman had no formal offer.
- Oct 15, 2026Aikman says he will broadcast through the season and become a free agent at the end of the year.
- Oct 19, 2026Buck and Aikman appear on live TV together for the first time since Aikman's comments about his contract status.
Key terms
- free agent
- A professional athlete who is not under contract with any team and is free to sign with another.
- booth
- Live running description of a sports game's action, typically delivered by a commentator on radio or television.
Source: Wikipedia