Remember the time when the Cowboys were winning back-to-back Super Bowls? First in 1992, 1993 and again in 1995. And the greatest wide receiver behind it? Michael Irvin. And now, he is creating waves as a standout broadcaster. In his recent podcast, he revealed his broadcasting journey and also exposed ESPN’s poaching attempt.

On Thursday, Irvin appeared on the Fanatics View podcast, where he shared his thoughts on ESPN’s attempt to poach him during his prime. He mentioned he was working with FOX at the time, but ESPN approaching him was funny. He recalled, “I got into the NFL. I had a great career here. And after my career here, I was working at Fox on Best Damn Sports Show.” He also added, “And it’s so funny ‘cause ESPN said they had a position opening, and they would like for me to come in.” That’s pretty interesting, right? Michael had just retired, and he was literally being courted by broadcasters.

He was working with FOX on a show called Undisputed, where Michael used to share his takes. But what happened after that? Michael himself revealed it, saying, “And I said okay. I came in, and it’s so funny how life works. You know, I went in, read for it, and they gave me a job. I was going to be working with Chris Berman and Tom Jackson.” Michael’s ESPN journey was nothing short of remarkable. He contributed before, during, and after games, establishing himself as a key voice in sports broadcasting.

And the journey? Irvin remarked, “Years later, I retire working at Best Dam Sterling and all of those guys are doing Countdown with Chris Burman. And you remember Sean Keshan. It’s so funny I work with Kean now. We laugh about this too.” Michael Irvin transitioned from the football field to becoming one of the most influential voices in sports media. From his early days as a commentator to his current role as a leading analyst, Irvin’s journey is both inspiring and impressive.

Michael Irvin’s rich broadcasting journey

As Irvin won three Super Bowl rings, the Cowboys‘ legendary wide receiver had a tremendous broadcasting journey. Nicknamed “The Playmaker,” for his exceptional route running, strong hands, and ability to make big plays in crucial moments, he paved his way in the broadcasting world hopping from org to org. He worked for ESPN, and after his retirement in 1999, he had a 15-year career with the NFL Network. From NFL Sundays to NFL Gameday Morning, he did every job and made a name for himself in broadcasting as well.

Along with that, he was also part of ESPN’s First Take, with co-speakers like Paul Pierce, Keyshawn Johnson, and Joy Taylor. In addition, he worked on Sunday NFL Countdown. But Michael Irvin’s NFL Network journey ended in a bittersweet way due to a woman’s complaint about improper behavior. He also filed a defamation case against her, but ultimately, the NFL Network had to let Michael go.

However, even after facing a significant setback in 2023, Michael Irvin didn’t flinch—he got right back to work. Despite the challenges, he refused to let anything slow him down. Instead of retreating or feeling discouraged, he used the experience as motivation to push forward.

Today, Michael is thriving in his career, delivering insightful analysis, strong opinions, and bold predictions that continue to captivate audiences. The legendary wide receiver, now 59 years old, shows no signs of slowing down.