Troy Aikman Emotional Over Death of ESPN Colleague David Moulton
The Hall of Fame quarterback and broadcaster mourned the loss of his 'right-hand man' who died after a battle with cancer.
ESPN broadcaster Troy Aikman became visibly emotional as he and partner Joe Buck discussed the death of their Monday Night Football colleague, David Moulton. Moulton, 60, died after a battle with renal cell cancer, his wife Julie confirmed to the Fort Myers News-Press.
Moulton served as a network spotter and was described by Aikman as his "right-hand man" during broadcasts, responsible for relaying crucial information to the booth. He had been fighting cancer for approximately six years.
"He was a fighter right up until the end," Aikman said, his voice breaking. "I'm sorry… He left a hole in a lot of people's hearts. Just a good man." Buck added, "He is missed up here, and well said."
Before joining the ESPN Monday Night Football team in recent years, Moulton worked with Aikman and Buck on Fox's NFL coverage. He also held a similar role for CBS college football games alongside Gary Danielson.
Aikman shared a tribute on Instagram, writing, "Since 2018, David Moulton has been my right-hand man in the broadcast booth. What started as a professional relationship became a friendship I have cherished. David was loyal, dependable and a warrior until the very end. He deserved better. My heart breaks for his family and all who loved him. I'm grateful for the years we shared and will miss him deeply. Rest in peace big guy."
Gary Danielson, through CBS Sports reporter Jenny Dell, also shared his memories. "David Moulton was my researcher/spotter with our CBS college football crew since 2006!! We first met when I heard him doing a local radio show; became intrigued with his knowledge, decided to cold call him and offered him a job!! He was great and helped make our broadcast better. More importantly for me, David grew into being my most trusted friend. During our travels together, we talked sports, but also so much more about life. I will miss him dearly. With deepest sorrow I want to send my condolences and love to Julie, his family and his beloved mother, Kit, who was his biggest supporter. David, you have so many friends that are all hurting today. Love you and will miss our talks, David!! Gary."
CBS Sports NFL sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson echoed the sentiment, reposting Dell's message and adding, "Thank you for sharing Jenny. David was a great man and great friend and I loved our time together. We kept in touch long after I stopped working with the crew. He will be missed by all. Prayers to his family during this difficult time."