The calculus behind the decision to let go of Jackson is not known, as news of his exit was not divulged when ESPN talent were laid off earlier this month.
"Given the current environment, ESPN has determined it necessary to identify some additional cost savings in the area of public-facing commentator salaries, and that process has begun."
Borrell Associates projects that figure will climb considerably over the next four years as the industry undergoes what it describes as a "great reshuffling."