ESPN seems to be engaged on conserving one in all its most distinguished personalities within the fold.
In accordance with experiences from The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, Stephen A. Smith is getting ready to a large contract extension that would reshape his future with the community.
The potential deal is nothing in need of extraordinary. Sources recommend a six-year contract price $120 million, which might elevate Smith to turn out to be ESPN’s highest-paid persona at $20 million yearly.
Initially, ESPN proposed an $18 million annual bundle, with discussions centering on a 5 – 6 yr dedication.
When approached in regards to the negotiations, Smith remained characteristically tight-lipped.
“Right here’s my quote, ‘I used to be born AT NIGHT, not final evening. I don’t discuss my contract negotiations. By no means have. By no means will,” he instructed The Athletic, dismissing preliminary experiences as untimely.
When requested over textual content if a brand new cope with ESPN is shut, Stephen A. Smith responded, “False.”
Later, he added, “Right here’s my quote, ‘I used to be born AT NIGHT, not final evening. I don’t discuss my contract negotiations. By no means have. By no means will.”
🔗 https://t.co/uOjmahUodp pic.twitter.com/si37r1N3YT
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) December 4, 2024
At present, Smith earns $12 million yearly—$8 million in direct compensation and $4 million by means of his manufacturing firm.
His workforce at WME is concurrently exploring a “first look” cope with Disney, ESPN’s father or mother firm, involving Mr. SAS Productions.
Whereas ESPN would cowl the vast majority of the contract, Disney Leisure and doubtlessly ESPN BET are anticipated to contribute.
The community, nevertheless, has maintained silence when immediately questioned in regards to the potential settlement.
At 57, Smith continues to be a powerhouse in sports activities media, with a number of income streams together with profitable sports activities playing offers complementing his broadcasting profession.
NEXT: 1 NFL Defensive Participant Is Using Historic Streak