ESPN is keenly interested in retaining one of its most prominent figures, Stephen A. Smith, as he approaches the expiration of his contract in 2025.
The network has reportedly tabled an impressive five-year contract worth $90 million, which breaks down to $18 million annually, to ensure Smith remains a central personality on their platform, as per information from Puck News.
In their negotiations, ESPN pitched to William Morris Endeavor (WME), the agency representing Smith, emphasizing the potential for him to become the highest-paid talent within the organization.
However, despite this lucrative offer, Smith is believed to be aiming higher, seeking a salary of around $25 million per year.
This development follows the high-profile signings of Joe Buck and Troy Aikman before the 2022 NFL season, who joined ESPN under similarly substantial contracts, each around $90 million over five years, as reported by The Post at that time.
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The conversation around Smith’s contract aspirations was further highlighted about a week ago when journalist James Andrew Miller discussed the early stages of these contract negotiations on the “SI Media with Jimmy Traina” podcast. Miller noted that Smith is not just looking for a significant salary bump but also exploring versatile and potentially lucrative media opportunities beyond traditional broadcast contracts.
Miller suggested that WME might be considering creating a diverse portfolio for Smith, including podcasts and various other media deals, which could collectively match or exceed an annual income of $20 million.
This indicates a broader strategy where Smith might leverage his extensive experience and personal brand across different platforms, rather than relying solely on a traditional media contract.
Stephen A. Smith, who first joined ESPN in 2003, has become widely recognized for his dynamic presence and outspoken commentary on shows like “First Take” and “NBA Countdown.”
Beyond his television appearances, Smith extends his influence through “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” a podcast where he discusses a wide array of topics, not limited to sports, showcasing his versatility as a media personality.
With the possibility of leaving ESPN still on the table, as mentioned by Miller, Smith’s situation underscores the evolving landscape of media personalities who can command significant influence and financial remuneration across multiple platforms.
The outcome of these negotiations could very well set a precedent for how top talent is valued and retained in the increasingly competitive and diverse media environment.
