Guest Vern Gagne Report post Posted July 3, 2003 Espn.com Former Dallas Cowboys All-Pro wide receiver Michael Irvin has signed with ESPN as an NFL studio analyst. Irvin, who retired from the NFL in 2000 after 12 seasons with the Cowboys, will join veteran host Chris Berman, with Tom Jackson and Steve Young on the main set of Sunday NFL Countdown. The show will open its 18th season on Sept. 7. Irvin also will provide analysis on the 11th season of Monday Night Countdown starting July 28. Since his retirement as a player, Irvin been on Fox Sports Net's Best Damn Sports Show, Period and The NFL Show. He also has served as an analyst for the Arena Football League's Dallas Desperados' local television telecasts in 2002, and as studio analyst for the 2003 season of the Arena Football League on NBC. "Michael puts an exclamation point on what is already the best pregame show in television. He brings solid credentials: closeness to the game, an engaging personality and television experience," said Mark Shapiro, ESPN executive vice president for programming and production. Viewers got a glimpse of Irvin's candid and energetic style when he served as guest analyst for one Sunday NFL Countdown telecast in 2001. "Michael brings a fresh perspective to an already informed, veteran cast. He's the perfect complement to the show and we're pleased to have him," said Bob Rauscher, ESPN senior coordinating producer. Irvin said, "During the course of my life, I've had the privilege of working with champions. Now, by the grace of God, I am about to get the privilege once again. During my 12 years with the Dallas Cowboys, spending time in many locker rooms, I have learned there is no one more respected than the ESPN team. I thank ESPN for this great opportunity, and am looking forward to learning all that I can from my new teammates." Irvin earned three Super Bowl rings, was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and holds almost every major career or single-season receiving record in Cowboys history. After a sustaining a severe neck injury during a game at Philadelphia on Oct. 10, 1999, Irvin retired at season's end tied for ninth all-time in receptions (750) and 10th all-time with 11,904 receiving yards. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest kkktookmybabyaway Report post Posted July 3, 2003 I never liked him as a player, but I had no problem with him on Fox. Did he ever earn a communications degree? I remember years ago he said something about getting into broadcasting when his playing days were over... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest jimmy no nose Report post Posted July 3, 2003 I like the ESPN pregame show and I've enjoyed Michael on Best Damn, so it's a good move all around. Hopefully it works out. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
