Bill Simmons is Leaving ESPN

Bill Simmons is leaving ESPN years after 14 years.

ESPN President John Skipper just released this statement:

"“I decided today that we are not going to renew Bill Simmons’ contract. We have been in negotiations and it was clear it was time to move on. ESPN’s relationship with Bill has been mutually beneficial – he has produced great content for us for many years and ESPN has provided him many new opportunities to spread his wings. We wish Bill continued success as he plans his next chapter. ESPN remains committed to Grantland and we have a strong team in place.”"

Well, who saw that coming? It doesn’t really sound as if it were his decision, either.