“Troy Aikman is not like that”: Terry Bradshaw breaks silence on Cowboys legend’s reported rift with Joe Buck over $108 million ESPN deal

Troy Aikman and Joe Buck have spent nearly 25 years working together, but their relationship now faces questions following a reported contract dispute at ESPN. As speculation grows about a possible split, Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw has stepped in to defend his longtime friend. He also revealed that he contacted Buck personally and does not believe money alone could explain the reported disagreement between the two broadcasters.Bradshaw's comments offer a different perspective on the controversy. While reports suggest that Buck's new $108 million contract created tension, the former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback believes Aikman is not someone who would let money damage a friendship. Terry Bradshaw stands up for Troy Aikman as Joe Buck contract dispute raises questionsBradshaw discussed the situation during an interview with FOX News host Brian Kilmeade. He revealed that he had exchanged text messages with Buck and urged him not to assume every report about the disagreement was accurate."I have talked to Buck via text and told him I don't assume everything I'm reading is correct," Bradshaw told Kilmeade.The Hall of Famer also explained why he found the reported financial disagreement difficult to believe. Both broadcasters have enjoyed successful careers, and Aikman has earned substantial money throughout his time in the NFL and broadcasting."I don't want to believe that it's the money that Buck got that's got Troy upset because Troy's making big money," Bradshaw said.He then shared what he understood about their contract negotiations. According to Bradshaw, Buck and Aikman had initially planned to approach ESPN together for new deals. However, Buck reportedly secured his extension before Aikman."I've heard that they were going to go into ESPN together and get a new deal together. Joe evidently got his before Troy. And that seems to be the rift. It's about money," he explained.Still, Bradshaw refused to believe that Aikman would allow the situation to affect their friendship."I find that hard to believe because Troy Aikman, he's not like that. And my understanding right now is things are OK," he added.However, the reported disagreement has already raised questions about what happens after the current season.Joe Buck's $108 million ESPN deal leaves Troy Aikman uncertain about his futureBuck signed a six-year extension worth $108 million with ESPN, while Aikman continues to work under the agreement he signed in 2022. Reports suggest Aikman did not know about Buck's new deal before it became public.The situation reportedly led to an argument before the October 12, 2026, Monday Night Football broadcast between the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Rams.Buck reportedly defended himself during their disagreement, telling Aikman, "I'm not the reason you don't have a contract."Aikman later addressed his future while speaking to reporters after the controversy surfaced. He confirmed that he would complete the season before becoming a free agent."I don't know if now is the time. I don't know if it's hard to figure out kind of what happened. I'll broadcast through this season and I'll be a free agent at the end of the year and kind of see what happens," Aikman said.The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback also discussed the uncertainty during an appearance on 96.7 The Ticket Dallas."As I'm into my last year at ESPN, I'm realizing that this is something that could very well be taken away from me," Aikman said.He admitted that the situation had made him appreciate his broadcasting career even more. Aikman also expressed hope that his time in the profession was not coming to an end.The reported tension comes after the pair experienced several changes behind the scenes at ESPN. According to The Athletic, they went through five producers and directors during their first four years at the network before settling into a comfortable arrangement with Steve Ackles and Artie Kempner.For now, Buck and Aikman remain scheduled to call the 2027 Super Bowl together. They have worked alongside each other since 2002 and have called six Super Bowls as a broadcasting team.Bradshaw believes their relationship may still be on good terms. However, Aikman's next contract decision could determine whether this longtime partnership continues beyond the upcoming Super Bowl.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.