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Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley is best-known for his witty (and always entertaining) commentary during the NBA season, but here’s something many sports fans probably didn’t know about: Sir Charles was allegedly offered an opportunity to join Monday Night Football.
Barkley, who’s a huge sports fan, recently joined the first episode of The Jim Brockmire Podcast and talked about how a network approached him about trying to make the switch from the NBA to talking about games during the NFL season. Obviously, the 58-year-old turned down the opportunity, but, man, how cool would it have been had he taken the offer?
It’s unsure as to when Charles Barkley was approached about the MNF gig, but, in fitting Sir Charles fashion, he gave the most honest and candid reason as to why he didn’t take the bait.
“I like football, but I ain’t gonna be one of these jackasses get on TV and act like he know about football.”
Classic Charles Barkley right there, right? I mean, the dude is great at talking about NBA games and adding flair to the NCAA Tournament, but it’s a little bizarre to think a guy nicknamed the “Round Mound of Rebound” would have a seamless crossover into talking about games during the NFL season. It’s not that he couldn’t do it successfully, it just seems a little strange to think about.
As for the future broadcast team of Monday Night Football, it’s still sort of unknown as to how ESPN will continue to boost its appeal. While I’m personally a fan of Louis Riddick joining the booth — as he did last NFL season — there’s still something missing. Obviously, an outspoken character like Charles Barkley would (presumably) change that. Maybe Pat McAfee finally gets his shot at some point soon? That’s something we should all hope for.
Bottom line is this: Barkley knows what his bread and butter is in broadcasting, and while he’s an A+ talent during the NBA season, making the switch to talking about games during the NFL season isn’t necessarily his forte, so he’s not going to force the issue. Other people may have considered the Monday Night Football opportunity, but he smartly turned it down.