NFL free agency is underway. And not just for the players. In recent weeks, Joe Buck (five years, $75 million, ESPN), Troy Aikman (five years, $90 million, ESPN) and Al Michaels (three years, $30 million, Amazon) have all signed lucrative deals with new employers. But if the “tectonic shift” in talent is unlikely to drive an “outsized impact” on fall ratings (as Sportico’s Anthony Crupi wrote), then it is reasonable to wonder why rights holders would commit eight figures annually to a broadcaster. Former Turner Sports president David Levy explained that having “great talent” in the booth can enhance the quality of a television broadcast, as well as the brand’s image. Of course, Levy built Turner Sports’ popular NBA coverage around the likes of Marv Albert, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal.
JWS’ Take: Crupi is not alone in suggesting the recent talent signings are unlikely to move the ratings needle. Former ESPN president John Skipper recently…