Amazon has signed Kirk Herbstreit to a new deal to keep him around as an NFL game analyst.
However, the new extension features an odd safety net for Amazon in the event somebody else becomes available, as Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reported.
“But the terms give Amazon flexibility to move on if one of its top targets, like Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay, becomes available, according to sources briefed on the decision who were not authorized to speak publicly.”
In 2022, Amazon made a strong push to land Herbstreit, and they ended up bringing him on board in a big get for the company. The Amazon deal for Herbstreit was reportedly worth $10 million a year initially, but it remains to be seen what the new extension numbers are.
While the team of Herbstreit and Al Michaels has been a success, it’s a bit of a surprise to see the caveat that Amazon could move on from Herbstreit if someone else is available.
McVay has long been viewed as a broadcast option whenever he decides to call it quits as a coach, although that might not be anytime soon.
Then again, Marchand report states that “if one of its top targets” is available, so it isn’t just McVay. That could also include popular names such as Greg Olsen and even Mike Tomlin, who stepped down from coaching and has been viewed as a popular candidate to join the TV world.
And, of course, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce could garner interest once he plays his final season in the NFL.
So, right now, Herbstreit has a new extension, but it doesn’t mean much considering that Amazon can replace him at any time with one of their “top targets.”
