Final Straw In ESPN's Simmons Decision Was Latest Goodell Remark

Bill Simmons on Thursday said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell "lacks 'testicular fortitude'" during an appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show," which "proved a tipping point" in ESPN President John Skipper's decision not to renew his contract. In a special to VANITY FAIR, James Andrew Miller also reported Simmons had become "increasingly bothered" by hearing that "Skipper’s people in management were badmouthing him." Simmons "has already had multiple offers and will no doubt wind up having more autonomy and, possibly, a bigger paycheck" in his next venture (VANITYFAIR.com, 5/9).

Simmons has still not commented since the news of his departure on Friday (THE DAILY). Meanwhile, Vice News co-Founder Shane Smith tweeted several times asking Simmons to move to his company.

@BillSimmons you are a beautiful baby boy and we love you very much. Come to VICE we make you happy for oncet in our misery lives.

— shane smith (@shanesmith30) May 8, 2015