Stephen A. Smith is trying to use the current media market to set the parameters for his next ESPN contract. And his example of choice is Pat McAfee.
According to a report by Puck's John Ourand, Smith is seeking around $25 million per year for his next contract with ESPN and that he "wants McAfee bucks."
Many have believed that McAfee's deal with ESPN was worth $17 million per year, but Puck's report stated that the figure for all of McAfee's services—licensing his show and his appearances on College GameDay—pays the former NFL punter closer to $30 million annually.
Related: Stephen A. Smith addresses Pat McAfee fight, but doesn't deny it happened
Smith's current contract, which expires in July 2025, nets him $12 million annually. ESPN has reportedly offered him a deal of $18 million per year, 50% more than his current deal and more than McAfee is paid to license his show, but Smith's agency, WME, is trying to compare Smith to McAfee's total package.
Puck reported that ESPN has resisted this comparison, particularly because McAfee's deals are production deals, not talent deals.
How can Stephen A. Smith drive up his price?
Smith has been the face of ESPN for a while, leading the growth of the daily show "First Take" while also providing analysis on "NBA Countdown."
But for his next deal, Front Office Sports reported on Thursday, June 20, that Smith is looking to do more direct NFL coverage. That could mean bringing Smith into the studio for NFL shows,looking to do more direct NFL coverage. That could mean bringing Smith into the studio shows for the NFL including "Sunday NFL Countdown" or "Monday Night Countdown."
Related: Stephen A. Smith admits he misses recently fired ESPN analyst
More sports media:
- Charles Barkley calls WBD execs 'clowns' amid NBA media rights negotiations
- NFL fans, get ready to hear a lot more from Stephen A. Smith
- Ex-ESPN anchor is headed back to court
NFL work would certainly add more to Smith's plate. He already does double duty for ESPN while also working on his own YouTube show/podcast and managing his production company, Mr. SAS Inc. But the addition of direct NFL coverage to Smith's repertoire is also an important wrinkle considering the popularity of the league in comparison to any other in the US.
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