Jerome Bettis is just the most recent name in the news. ESPN feels they have far too many on-air staff that are paid like, well, on-air people are in the business. These layoffs were in the works for a few months. Google 'ESPN layoffs' and read all the former players, longtime analysts, writers and others who are being let go. It includes people like Ed Werder, Jayson Stark, Trent Dilfer, etc.
Here is something from Deadspin published in early March.
SI has learned that ESPN will have significant cost-cutting over the next four months on its talent side. Multiple sources said ESPN has been tasked with paring tens of millions of staff salary from its payroll, including staffers many viewers and readers will recognize. Those with contracts coming up would be particularly vulnerable, sources said. The company is also expected to buyout some existing contracts, which is something rare for ESPN historically beyond a few NFL talents. The cuts are expected to be completed by June.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/09/2017 12:07PM by snowman.
