Why ESPN will have trouble landing Peyton Manning to replace Troy Aikman on ‘MNF’

ESPN may approach Peyton Manning about replacing Troy Aikman as Joe Buck’s partner on Monday Night Football, but landing him could be difficult. Manning has previously declined offers to work in a broadcast booth, and his current arrangement with ESPN lets him cover games from home alongside his brother Eli.

According to reporter Andrew Marchand, Manning is ESPN’s preferred choice, while Greg Olsen is considered the favourite for the role. The Mannings are scheduled to cover 12 games this season and Super Bowl 2027 through their ManningCast. Aikman’s contract ends after the Super Bowl in February; he and Buck have worked together for 25 years, but Aikman said in September he had not heard from ESPN about a new deal.