ESPN needs a color commentator to replace Jon Gruden on Monday Night Football, and the broadcast giant is prepared to offer a hefty salary in hopes of luring Peyton Manning.
According to Andrew Marchand of the New York Post, a source said ESPN is willing to “back up the truck’ for the five-time MVP.
Marchand notes Fox, the upcoming home of Thursday Night Football, has also approached Manning to be a primetime game analyst.
The report confirms a widely held belief that Manning would be a top priority for ESPN. Whether as a host for an awards show or Saturday Night Live, he has consistently drawn positive reviews for his humor and ability to engage an audience.
After the success of Tony Romo in the CBS booth last year, it’s appealing to have a charismatic former player who actually provides real, in-depth analysis. Manning seems like somebody who would analyze and explain the game in a comprehensible manner.
And that’s exactly why ESPN is prepared to shovel money at Manning. Should he not pursue the opportunity, though, Marchand notes ESPN will consider Matt Hasselbeck, Randy Moss, Charles Woodson and Kurt Warner, possibly among others.