The uncertainty surrounding Ryan Clark is now over.
The NFL analyst, who has been ESPN for nine years, has verbally agreed to a deal to stay with the network, according to The Athletic.
Clark's contract ended at the beginning of February, though the sides reportedly extended the deal for it to end after Super Bowl LVIII. However, since then, the former Pro Bowl safety has spoken on social media and his podcast, "The Pivot," about the dispute with the network, saying he's felt "played" during contract negotiations.
"Somebody's got to pay the piper," Clark said in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Feb. 14. "It's not that I think I should be paid more than somebody that does the job. I just want what I'm worth."
3 years ago I signed an extension with ESPN. I was so grateful for more time. I excited to prove I was worth more, felt I deserved more. We disagreed, & that’s ok. I set out on a mission to leave no doubt, end all conversations about my who I was in this business. I added… pic.twitter.com/oVrClmctUg
— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) February 14, 2024
Related: One ESPN talent is going public about his contract dispute with the network
In another post on Feb. 17, Clark explained on "The Pivot" the difficulties of negotiating a contract. He also recognized on the caption of the post that his actions have made the negotiations public.
"It’s no longer a secret that my contract with ESPN has expired," Clark wrote. "Heck, I’m the reason it’s no longer a secret. I’m so grateful for the decade of work they allowed me to do on the world’s greatest sports platform."
He reiterated on the post that he just wanted to be where his "effort is valued."
Related: ESPN, 'First Take' show dominate in rivalry with Fox Sports, 'Undisputed'
The details on financials and length of the deal have not been revealed, though The Athletic reported that ESPN is expected to announce the deal "soon."
Clark, who is often on ESPN airwaves on shows like "NFL Live!" and "Get Up!" also has several other endeavors outside of the network including his podcast and as the host of "Inside the NFL," which airs on The CW.
He's reportedly going to continue with those projects while staying with ESPN.
All love to my brothers @fredtaylor & @channingcrowder. I appreciate their words and sincerity. It’s no longer a secret that my contract with ESPN has expired. Heck, I’m the reason it’s no longer a secret. I’m so grateful for the decade of work they allowed me to do on the… pic.twitter.com/2fg6sqq45s
— Ryan Clark (@Realrclark25) February 17, 2024
Related: Veteran fund manager picks favorite stocks for 2024
