Stephen A. Smith Seeks $25 Million Annually Amid ESPN's $90 Million Offer

The prominent sports analyst aims to become ESPN's highest-paid talent as negotiations intensify.

ESPN has offered Stephen A. Smith a five-year, $90 million contract, averaging $18 million per year.
Smith's demand for $25 million annually surpasses the salaries of top ESPN talents like Joe Buck and Troy Aikman.
Smith has been with ESPN since 2003, with a brief hiatus, and is a key figure on 'First Take' and 'NBA Countdown'.
Smith's current earnings include an $8 million base salary and $4 million from a production contract.
The negotiations could see Smith exploring other platforms if ESPN does not meet his demands.