ESPN reportedly re-signs Mike Golic ahead of ‘Mike & Mike’ divorce
ESPN is planning to split up its more popular radio duo, but it's reportedly keeping both of its Mikes around.
Mike Golic might be looking for a new co-host, but he apparently won't be looking for a new employer.
ESPN expert James Miller, author of Those Guys Have All the Fun: Inside the World of ESPN, reports that the former Eagles defensive tackle has re-signed with the network. Terms of the deal are unknown.
ESPN declined to comment on the news.
The move isn't surprising, considering Golic has been at ESPN for 19 years and Mike & Mike is one of the most popular sports programs on radio. But it does come as the network is looking to split Golic and his longtime on-air partner, Mike Greenberg, who will reportedly get his own morning show.
Greenberg has also recently signed a new deal that reportedly pays him $6.5 million a year.
In an interview with Men's Journal, Golic said he will continue the show, but said he and his bosses haven't decided on a format or a new co-host. But Golic likes the idea of possibly working with his son, Mike Jr., who co-hosts a morning show on ESPN Radio.
"I don't know if we'll do the show together, but we will do plenty of things together," Golic said. "He's great at it. He's a natural. To be involved when he's involved in it, too, is pretty cool."
Golic also said he doesn't hold a grudge against Greenberg for wanting to try something new.
"Everything comes to an end for whatever reason," Golic said. "It comes down to personal choices, and if Mike wants to go do his thing or try something new, I support him. It happens."
"Mike & Mike" airs weekdays on ESPN Radio from 6–10 a.m. and is simulcast on ESPN2. It airs locally on 610 AM WTEL after previously airing for years on 97.5 The Fanatic. Not only has Mike & Mike been one of ESPN's most successful and long-running programs (not to mention a significant source of revenue), the ratings of ESPN2's simulcast of Mike & Mike often top the 3-hour average ratings for SportsCenter on ESPN from 6-10 a.m.
The move to re-sign Golic also comes as ESPN is planning to undergo another round of layoffs, which will spare behind-the-scenes staff but include many hosts and reporters whom fans know and recognize.