Kirk Herbstreit is reportedly staying in the Thursday Night Football booth at Prime Video. However, according to The Athletic, Amazon built in flexibility to move on from Herbstreit. Moreover, if a top target like Sean McVay becomes available.
What We Know: Herbstreit, 57, is in the final season of his initial five-year Prime Video deal alongside Al Michaels. According to the reporting, the new contract spans multiple seasons and pays more than eight figures per year. Still, it runs shorter than his first deal, and its exact length remains unconfirmed by Prime Video. Meanwhile, his ESPN contract, which covers College GameDay and top college game duties, also expires after this season.
What’s At Stake: Herbstreit has been a trusted voice for NFL fans opposite of Al Michaels on Thursday Night Football. With Michaels, 81, potentially considering retirement following this season, it was important to lock in a massive piece for continuity into next season. This now opens the door for what the futures of Tony Romo (CBS), Greg Olsen (FOX), and Troy Aikman (ESPN) could be.
What Remains Unclear: ESPN nor Herbstreit have confirmed or commented on the reporting by The Athletic. Also, whether or not ESPN will extend Herbstreit with another contract for College GameDay and booth work on Saturday’s is also unknown.
What It Means: For now, Prime Video keeps continuity in its booth while protecting its long-term options. However, the bigger decision now shifts to ESPN. There, Herbstreit pulls Saturday double duty on College GameDay and prime-time games with Chris Fowler. With both programs on both networks achieving larger audiences year over year, Herbstreit could be in the cat bird seat to cash in if he so chooses.
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