Jim Rome Announces Departure From ESPN To Join CBS Sports Network

Speculation abounded this afternoon that fiery personality Jim Rome and his “Jim Rome Is Burning” show were parting ways with ESPN, and Rome confirmed that speculation tonight, taking to Twitter to announce his goodbye.

I want to thank ESPN for the opportunity to host JRIB & all the support I received over the years. I'm looking forward to future endeavors.

—
Jim Rome (@jimrome) January 07, 2012

Sources told The Big Lead that Rome was presented with a multi-year contract offer but declined. “JRIB” will now move over to the CBS Sports Network, with Rome having an expanded role at the network beyond the show.

Rome, 47, has hosted the nationally-syndicated “Jim Rome Show” on terrestrial radio since 1996. He had an eight-year run on ESPN, with a brief hiatus in 2004.