In a bid to bolster their radio ratings, ESPN is reportedly considering a move to bring back one of their former talents and most popular faces in sports media, Colin Cowherd.
According to Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports, the network is eager to re-sign the renowned sports commentator and host of “The Herd with Colin Cowherd” on FS1 and Fox Sports Radio.
Cowherd, whose contract with FS1 is slated to expire at the end of the NFL season in 2025, has been a major draw for his current employers, establishing himself as a ratings powerhouse in the world of radio broadcasting.
ESPN’s decision to pursue a reunion with Cowherd comes as they face difficulties with their own radio ratings, leading to the cancellation of ‘Keyshawn, JWill, and Max,’ and the laying off of Keyshawn Johnson and Max Kellerman.
ESPN is reported to be willing to “go the distance” to get Cowherd back with the company.
BREAKING: ESPN is eyeing a reunion with Colin Cowherd.
Cowherd's stock is at an all-time high, and sources tell me ESPN is "very interested" in trying to swipe the Fox Sports host when his contract expires in early 2025.
My story: https://t.co/CVDtYDgZtw pic.twitter.com/jjJ9RCdTPw
— Michael McCarthy (@MMcCarthyREV) August 1, 2023
With his immense popularity and the impressive ratings he consistently garners, negotiations between Cowherd and Fox are expected to attract significant attention.
Insiders note that the upcoming contract negotiation with Fox is a monster deal for the network, given Cowherd’s all-time high ratings and his reputation for being easy to work with, unlike some other controversial figures in the industry.
“The monster negotiation coming up for Fox is Colin. His ratings are at an all-time high. And he causes zero issues – unlike Skip Bayless,” the report states.
While ESPN has shown a willingness to cut costs in recent times, the network remains unreserved in their pursuit of big names to strengthen their roster. Already securing a deal with Pat McAfee (and possibly signing Shannon Sharpe), ESPN appears determined to reclaim their position as a major force in the world of sports media.
Would you like to see Cowherd back on ESPN?
