Peyton Manning's audibles changed so frequently that former teammate Brandon Stokley revealed defenses studied television audio to decipher the code. ESPN may never hear a single "Omaha" call in its broadcast booth alongside Joe Buck, despite holding out hope for it.

The Hall of Fame quarterback is reportedly ESPN's top choice to succeed Troy Aikman on Monday Night Football, yet already provides NFL analysis from home alongside his brother Eli during their popular Manningcast alternate broadcast.

Manning is widely expected to turn down the offer and continue as usual as a content partner through his Omaha Productions company, which produces the scripted series Chad Powers for Hulu and NFL positional documentary specials for Netflix.

The Athletic's Andrew Marchand reported that Manning is ESPN's ideal candidate and the frontrunner for the position. Company chairman Jimmy Pitaro is anticipated to approach Manning about reuniting with Buck, following years of unsuccessful advances that have failed to change his mind.

Aikman's contract expires in March, while Buck has reportedly secured a six-year, $108 million extension. This development reportedly triggered a behind-the-scenes dispute before the pair went live during the Week 6 matchup between the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Rams, reports the Mirror US.

Marchand also reported that Buck recently established Denver as his primary residence, approximately five minutes from Manning's home. The move does little to benefit ESPN, as the network has persistently attempted to persuade Manning to spend his autumn Mondays traveling to stadiums across the country.

The ManningCast with Eli covers approximately 11 regular-season games this season. The brothers broadcast remotely and retain significant control over their schedules. Their Omaha Productions company also holds an extensive ESPN partnership that runs through 2034.

Manning has expressed his appreciation for his independence, turning down traditional television opportunities during a 2022 appearance on the Colin Cowherd Podcast because the broadcast role demanded a four-day commitment.

He made those remarks one year after the NFL expanded the regular season from 16 to 17 games. The former Colts and Broncos quarterback also stated in 2018 that he had no desire to become a critic of players.

The ManningCast is a relaxed program featuring celebrity guests and typically centered around casual conversation between the NFL siblings. Notable personalities who have made appearances include John Elway, actress Brenda Song, Breaking Bad stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, among others.

The ManningCast's viewership has dropped considerably, with a reported 517,000 viewers for a late-October edition compared with nearly two million at its early peak. The show still outperformed Pat McAfee's altcast ratings, which ESPN conveniently chose not to publicize.

Former tight end Greg Olsen is regarded as the more viable candidate, boasting a well-established reputation as an analyst and a genuine interest in the role. Tom Brady replaced Olsen as Fox's lead NFL game analyst in 2024.