What Happened to Troy Kenneth Aikman?

Troy Aikman's journey from a highly touted college quarterback to an NFL icon and then a multifaceted media and business mogul is marked by consistent success and strategic transitions. Drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, Aikman quickly became the cornerstone of a dynasty, leading the team to three Super Bowl championships (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX) in the 1990s, earning Super Bowl XXVII MVP honors. His playing career, though brilliant, was cut short by numerous concussions, leading to his retirement in 2001.

Following his retirement, Aikman seamlessly transitioned into sports broadcasting, joining Fox Sports in 2001 as a color commentator. He quickly ascended to the network's lead NFL on-air team alongside play-by-play announcer Joe Buck, forming one of the longest-tenured and most respected broadcasting duos in NFL history. This partnership continued for over two decades, covering numerous high-profile games and Super Bowls. In March 2022, a significant turning point occurred when Aikman, along with Buck, moved to ESPN to become the lead broadcast team for Monday Night Football, signing a multi-year deal reportedly worth around $90 million over five years. Aikman cited a lack of communication from Fox leadership regarding his contract as a primary reason for his departure.

Beyond the broadcast booth, Aikman has cultivated a thriving entrepreneurial portfolio. In 2022, he launched EIGHT Elite Light Lager, a low-calorie, low-carb beer named after his jersey number. The brand has seen rapid expansion across Texas and Oklahoma, securing over $26 million in funding by early 2025 and launching new packaging and marketing campaigns featuring Joe Buck. Aikman's involvement in the beer industry stems from a lifelong relationship with beer and a desire to create a 'better-for-you' option.

More recently, in December 2024, Aikman announced a significant partnership with VENU Holding Corporation, a developer of luxury live entertainment amphitheaters. He became the namesake of the exclusive 'Aikman Club' within these venues across Texas and Oklahoma. By April 2026, his role expanded further as he was named the national spokesperson for VENU's $300+ million Luxe FireSuite Triple Net real estate portfolio, also holding a shareholder and FireSuite owner stake. This venture aligns with his expanding footprint in the business and hospitality side of live entertainment.

In early 2026, Aikman also took on a temporary consulting role with the Miami Dolphins, assisting owner Stephen Ross in their general manager and head coach searches. While this role was initially temporary, Aikman confirmed in March 2026 that he would continue to work with the Dolphins in some capacity, expressing that it 'scratched whatever itch' he had for a front-office position. This move sparked discussion, particularly given his deep ties to the Dallas Cowboys, who have not offered him a similar front-office opportunity. In his personal life, after two divorces, Aikman is reportedly dating Marisa Howard as of 2025-2026. As of May 12, 2026, Troy Aikman remains a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, a successful entrepreneur, and an active participant in NFL advisory capacities.