Andrew Marchand is the sports media reporter for the New York Post.

He dropped a story today titled “ESPN plotting dream ‘Monday Night Football’ booth: Al Michaels and Peyton Manning,” a gnarly read on what would be a blockbuster broadcasting personnel move.

Writes Marchand:

Thinking large and outside the box, ESPN plans to attempt to acquire Al Michaels from NBC Sports for “Monday Night Football,” The Post has learned.

ESPN would like to team Michaels with Peyton Manning in its dream booth, according to sources. Manning is now ESPN’s top choice as analyst after Tony Romo agreed to his 10-year, $180 million deal to remain with CBS last week.

ESPN has also shown interest in free-agent quarterback Philip Rivers, according to sources. Rivers, 38, has said he intends to continue playing. NFL free agency officially begins March 18, but agents can start talking to teams on March 16.

Marchand says ESPN is “strongly considering a change” when it comes to the current MNF tandem of Joe Tessitore and Booger McFarland. He notes that Michaels has two years remaining on his NBC contract.

This means you might have to bring in a third team to get this deal done. Something like this:

  • ESPN receives: Al Michaels and Mike Quick
  • NBC receives: Merrill Reese and Howard Eskin
  • the Philadelphia Eagles receive: Joe Tessitore, Booger McFarland, a 1st round draft pick, and cash considerations

Who says no?