The Washington Commanders and radio station WTEM are cutting ties.
The radio station said it disagreed with the team over the value of Commanders broadcast rights. There was also a veiled reference to the Commanders wanting to put a lid on serious and honest "on air" discussions. As you may know, Commanders management is caught up in a sexual harassment investigation and the team simply hasn't been very good in recent years.
The Commanders countered that it could get a better financial deal elsewhere.
In a case like this, remember the Golden Rule: "He who has the gold makes the rules."
The Commanders will get more money from another station group, and calling the shots on the tone of coverage will undoubtedly be part of the deal. It's happened before. It happens now. It will happen in the future.
WTEM will be wounded by the loss of the Commanders, but it will survive, perhaps with its dignity intact.
Follow the money.
