Al Michaels is expected to leave NBC when his contract with the network expires later this year, and the broadcasting legend has a major decision to make ahead of the 2022 NFL season.
A report from five months ago claimed Michaels was in deep discussions with Amazon about becoming the lead play-by-play announcer for “Thursday Night Football.” The streaming giant will have exclusive rights to the NFL’s Thursday package beginning next season. We haven’t heard much about Michaels closing in on a deal with Amazon since. That could be because the 77-year-old has not made up his mind.
According to Richard Deitsch of The Athletic, Michaels is still contemplating his future. He may have more to think about now that ESPN has lured Troy Aikman away from FOX with a massive contract.
Michaels will likely have his choice between ESPN and Amazon. If Buck leaves FOX, which seems unlikely, Michaels may have a third suitor.
Michaels called “Monday Night Football” on ABC/ESPN from 1986 to 2005. The network is said to have interest in bringing him back. Pairing Michaels with Aikman would give ESPN the powerhouse booth that it hasn’t had in years.
It’s hard to imagine Michaels, who is one of the greatest play-by-play broadcasters of all time, finishing his career with Amazon. Most NFL fans would probably rather see him with Aikman on “Monday Night Football.”
Photo: Aug 26, 2018; Arlington, TX, USA; Network television commentator Al Michaels before the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
