As Stephen A. Smith’s contract with ESPN is nearing its end, as the outspoken sports analyst is reportedly aiming for a substantial pay raise as he approaches free agency. While Smith has multiple options, such as potentially joining another network or pursuing independent ventures like his ‘Stephen A. Smith Show,’ covering a range of topics beyond sports, there’s also a significant likelihood that he may opt to continue his association with ESPN. The final decision remains uncertain, adding anticipation to this pivotal juncture in Smith’s broadcasting career.

Smith, known for his resilience and competitive drive, has openly expressed his ambition to reclaim the title of ESPN’s highest-paid talent as his contract approaches expiration in less than 18 months. Affirming this goal to Clay Travis of OutKick, Smith highlighted his consistent No. 1 ranking in sports television over the past 12 years, emphasizing his unparalleled success.

Stephen A. Smith overshadows all

Juggling multiple roles on First Take and NBA Countdown, the 56-year-old Smith is celebrated for his outstanding work ethic, with his negotiating leverage steadily increasing. His recruitment of Shannon Sharpe, Bayless’s former Undisputed sparring partner, has significantly boosted First Take’s TV ratings. Achieving its highest audience in its 16-year history with 1.5 million viewers on Martin Luther King Day, the weekday morning show outperformed Bayless’s Undisputed on FS1 by five times. Fueled by Smith’s humorous taunts directed at Dallas Cowboys fans, First Take recorded its most-watched January ever.

Read More: 2 Years After Deion Sanders Being Robbed, Colorado Players Suffered Similar Horrible Fate at UCLA

Previously Smith held the distinction of being the company’s highest-paid talent, commanding an annual salary of $12 million. However, he has now been eclipsed by the Monday Night Football pairing of Troy Aikman ($18 million) and Joe Buck ($15 million), along with Pat McAfee ($15 million), who licenses his afternoon show to ESPN.

Smith hikes pay raise in millions

Will Cain, the innovator behind the guest debater role on Stephen A. Smith’s First Take, emphasizes Smith’s unparalleled value, branding him as the most crucial figure in sports media. While recognizing Smith’s significance to ESPN, Cain raises the question of whether the reciprocity holds. Once believed to be ESPN’s top earner at $12 million annually, Smith now eyes a potential contract renewal that surpasses other notable figures. Smith is also speculated to “command a contract of $20M per year in free agency.”

Despite his ongoing success, Smith openly contemplates diversifying into late-night TV, entertainment, or politics, hinting at a potential shift away from ESPN. Juggling multiple roles and platforms, including a YouTube podcast with 524,000 subscribers, Smith’s upcoming negotiation with ESPN is poised to be closely monitored. Should ESPN fail to present an offer exceeding $20 million annually, they run the risk of parting ways with the network’s iconic face and voice.

Watch This Story: Coach Prime Deion Sanders’s coaching conundrum deepens with Colorado football quality control analysts’ promotion