Stephen A. Smith is on the hunt for a new contract and is drawing comparisons to NFL star quarterback Dak Prescott to back up his hefty requests.
Having established himself as one of the most prominent figures in sports media, it’s not surprising that he is aiming for a substantial contract. During a recent appearance on Boardroom, Smith articulated why he believes he deserves a significant payday.
For context, his current contract with ESPN concludes in 2025, prompting these discussions. There are also whispers that Smith is aiming for a five-year deal worth $100 million.
“It ain’t false,” Smith remarked when probed about the rumored amount that had been circulating. “I always want as much money as I can get. I’m not going to apologize for that. I’m a capitalist.”
He went on to draw parallels between himself and Prescott, suggesting that he delivers greater value in his field than the quarterback does for the Cowboys.
“Look at the industries, observe what others are earning, and recognize what they contribute… Dak Prescott recently secured a $240 million contract, earning $60 million each year.”
What will @stephenasmith‘s next contract look like? ?”
(?: @CNN) pic.twitter.com/0zwUnAknxY
— Boardroom (@boardroom) October 2, 2024
When the interviewer pointed out that Prescott is the starting quarterback for America’s Team, implying that the comparison was misplaced, Smith retorted, “Who has won two playoff games in eight years? I’ve been at the top for 12 [years].”
He concluded, “I’m sorry. In our respective fields, I succeed… I’m fully aware of my worth, and I will never apologize for it.”
Smith has had several tenures with ESPN, yet has been a stable presence there since 2012, when he joined “First Take” full-time. Earlier this year, reports surfaced that the network had extended a five-year, $90 million offer. If accurate, Smith’s ambitions for a $100 million agreement may not be too far-fetched.
Regardless of opinions, one can’t help but admire his confidence. While it seems astonishing for a media figure to command such wealth, his ability to generate substantial ratings and, consequently, revenue for ESPN lends credibility to his demands, no matter how extraordinary they might appear.
Ironically, the focus on Prescott during this discussion adds an unexpected twist —ouch.
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