According to a report, ESPN has identified Peyton Manning as its top choice to replace Troy Aikman in the network's lead NFL broadcast booth. However, sources indicate that Greg Olsen is currently believed to be the most likely candidate for the role.
The report, published on November 3, 2026, suggests that while Manning is the preferred option for ESPN executives, contractual or scheduling factors may make Olsen the more realistic selection. Olsen has been serving as an analyst for Fox Sports and has received positive reviews for his work in the broadcast booth.
Aikman departed ESPN earlier this year to join Amazon's Thursday Night Football coverage, leaving a vacancy alongside play-by-play announcer Joe Buck. ESPN has been evaluating several high-profile former players for the position.
