ESPN parts ways with Bill Simmons

ESPN has formally parted ways with longtime sports columnist and Grantland Editor-in-Chief Bill Simmons.

"I decided today that we are not going to renew Bill Simmons' contract," said ESPN president John Skipper in a statement. "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."

Though Simmons has long been one of ESPN's most prominent and influential voices, he has repeatedly clashed with ESPN executives — at one point openly daring the network to suspend him for criticizing NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. ESPN responded by suspending Simmons for three weeks.

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Simmons has yet to issue a statement.