Aikman Likely to Call Super Bowl With Buck, Marchand Says

A small possibility remains that Troy Aikman will not join Joe Buck in ESPN’s booth for Super Bowl LXI, but the estimate that he will is 95%, according to sports media reporter Andrew Marchand. The figure reflects Marchand’s assessment, not an announced decision by ESPN or either broadcaster. ESPN is scheduled to air the game on February 14, 2027, its first Super Bowl broadcast. Marchand said Aikman was more likely than not to work alongside Buck, while describing their relationship as professional but strained. He also said public discussion of the dispute could affect how it is handled internally. The reported tension centers in part on contracts. Buck secured an ESPN extension, while Aikman has no new deal, according to the reports. Marchand’s account says Aikman felt betrayed after learning Buck’s agreement had been finalized. The reports do not establish that ESPN has decided to replace Aikman before the Super Bowl. Marchand also described a tense exchange between the broadcasters before an October Monday Night Football game. In the account, Buck challenged Aikman about their lack of communication and said he was not responsible for Aikman’s contract situation. Aikman...