Bill Simmons Out at ESPN

Grantland founder Bill Simmons is out at ESPN, company president John Skipper announced Friday, less than a year after the network suspended the sports commentator for criticizing NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s handling of the Ray Rice sexual-assault case. “We have been in negotiations and it was clear it was time to move on,” Skipper said in a statement. “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, Skipper added.