Troy Aikman is set to work the Cowboys' matchup with the NFC East rival Eagles on Monday Night Football, but the Hall of Fame quarterback even seems to realize his broadcasting career could be nearing an end.
Aikman is in the final year of his contract with ESPN. And though the network already extended play-by-play announcer Joe Buck to a lucrative extension, Aikman isn't likely to be brought back after this season. That has reportedly sparked some animosity between the longtime broadcast partners.
But when it comes to Aikman's broadcasting career beyond just ESPN, the 2026 season could also be it for the 59-year-old color commentator.
In a podcast appearance with Cowboys reporter Mike Fisher, Aikman basically admitted that this was the last season for him at ESPN. He was also unsure if he'll continue broadcasting.
"As I'm into my last year at ESPN, I'm realizing that this is something that could very well be taken away from me. For the first time, I'm realizing how much I really do – I've always enjoyed it. I've always known that. But until you risk having something taken away from you, I think sometimes you tend to maybe take things for granted.
"And so, for the first time probably in my career, I'm realizing, you know, this is a great profession. It's been a great ride for me, and I hope it's not over. Time will tell."
It's unclear what direction ESPN will go in the post-Aikman era, but Greg Olsen will likely be among the top choices. Aikman signed with ESPN back in 2022 to lead the Monday Night Football booth alongside Buck after a lengthy run with Fox Sports.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Troy Aikman admitted that this could be the final year of his broadcasting career