The possibility of Troy Aikman leaving ESPN has opened the door to speculation about his next broadcasting move, including an unusual suggestion that would unite two of the Dallas Cowboys' most celebrated quarterbacks.
Aikman is approaching the end of his five-year, $90 million contract with ESPN, while fellow former Dallas quarterback Tony Romo is also available following his departure from CBS Sports.
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Their situations prompted media personality Sal Iacono, better known as Cousin Sal, to float the idea of a Cowboys-focused alternative broadcast featuring both former players.
"Romo/Aikman Cowboys alt-cast. Let's just do it already," Iacono wrote on X.
Although the concept has generated interest, it remains an independent suggestion rather than a proposal formally being considered by either broadcaster or a television network.
Aikman's future has become increasingly uncertain following reports of tension involving his longtime broadcasting partner Joe Buck.
The pair have worked together for more than two decades, establishing themselves as one of football's most recognizable commentary partnerships before moving from Fox to ESPN in 2022. However, their contract situations have recently taken different directions.
Buck reportedly agreed to a six-year extension worth approximately $108 million, while Aikman has yet to receive a formal offer to extend his current agreement.
Front Office Sports reported that the pair had an argument before ESPN's broadcast of the Los Angeles Rams against the Buffalo Bills, although neither has publicly detailed the alleged disagreement.
Speaking on Dallas radio station 96.7 The Ticket, Aikman acknowledged the uncertainty without committing to a particular outcome.
"I think there's probably a time and a place for all that to be discussed. I don't know if now is the time," he said. "I'll broadcast through this season, and I'll be a free agent at the end of the year and kind of see what happens."
His contract runs through ESPN's Super Bowl coverage on February 14, 2027, leaving several months before a decision becomes necessary.
Romo's unexpected CBS exit adds another possibility
Romo's departure from CBS has created an unusual situation in the broadcasting market, with two former Cowboys quarterbacks potentially available during the same offseason.
The 46-year-old spent nine seasons with CBS, becoming the network's lead NFL analyst alongside Jim Nantz after retiring from professional football.
However, the two sides mutually agreed to separate after Romo was placed on leave following a July arrest in Wisconsin for operating while intoxicated.
Romo subsequently pleaded no contest and has indicated that he intends to prioritize his health and family before deciding whether to return to broadcasting.
His availability nevertheless makes Iacono's suggestion an intriguing possibility, particularly given the pair's shared history with Dallas.
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Aikman led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl championships during the 1990s, while Romo became the franchise's starting quarterback during a later era under owner Jerry Jones.
Their combined experience and familiarity with the organization could provide a distinctive perspective on Dallas games, particularly in an alternative broadcast format.
However, both men built their television reputations as lead analysts, meaning any partnership would require an arrangement substantially different from their previous roles.
Aikman could also remain with ESPN, while Romo hasn't established a timetable for returning to television.
What began as a social media suggestion therefore remains speculative, but the uncertainty surrounding two prominent broadcasters has created an unexpected possibility for Cowboys fans.