I confess, with everything I’m hearing about the post-playing life of many players, I question if this is the right thing for Witten.
I get that it’s tough to walk away from all the good things that go with playing, but I do hope he’s at least considered the long-term ramifications. Or perhaps, he figures, that the damage has already been done, anyway.
Sometimes it is hard to walk away. It is a special club to be in and at that level...man! Now as for what he can contribute...I can see him playing a limited roll. Special downs in key situations. He is dedicated and I bet he still has the fire. I hope he isn’t writing checks his body can’t cash.
He was so bad in the booth that he was being mocked mercilessly by everyone. ESPN had stood behind him (because no exec wants to admit to making such a huge mistake) but I’m sure they whispered in his ears that he needed to improve of his broadcast career was over. He needed to find a way to gracefully exit but still leave the door open to returning to the booth and he found it. He will likely be bad, retire again, and work in TV on a less visible role to build up his skills. Let’s see if my prediction pans out!