Posted by Strike Three on February 29, 2008 at 10:28:04:
Sean Salisbury, never at a loss for words, said Tuesday he's leaving ESPN after 12 years to "expand my horizons. I have created a brand, and it's time to expand into other opportunities in TV, radio, Internet, publishing, movies and public speaking, among others."
ESPN offered a far shorter farewell, wishing Salisbury the best.
Insiders say Salisbury's contract was up and some at the network found his on-air style grating and were troubled by off-air issues.
Salisbury, who paired with Steve Rosenbloom during a short-lived stint as a morning host on ESPN's WMVP-AM 1000 in Chicago, reportedly was suspended in 2006 for sending an inappropriate photo from his cell phone.
The incident made him a target of blogs such as deadspin.com and thebiglead.com.
Salisbury's agent, Steve Mandell, could not be reached for comment.
Salisbury essentially will be replaced by former All-Pro wide receiver Cris Carter, who will begin April 1.