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ESPN says it won’t renew Bill Simmons’ contract

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FILE - In this May 6, 2014 file photo, Bill Simmons arrives at the world premiere of "Million Dollar Arm" at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles. ESPN says that it is parting ways with Bill Simmons, one of its top personalities who created the Grantland website and was instrumental in the network\'s documentary series. Network president John Skipper said Friday that he decided not to renew Simmons\' contract. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, File)

NEW YORK, N.Y. – ESPN says that it is parting ways with Bill Simmons, one of its top personalities who created the Grantland website and was instrumental in the network’s documentary series.

Network president John Skipper said Friday that he decided not to renew Simmons’ contract. He said ESPN was negotiating an extension, but that “it was clear it was time to move on.”

ESPN suspended Simmons for three weeks last year after he called NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell a liar in a profane podcast.

Skipper said Simmons has produced great content for ESPN and the Bristol, Connecticut-based network gave Simmons many opportunities. He said ESPN remains committed to keeping Grantland operating.

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