Had a thought … just wanted to get it out there.
When someone of Steve McNair’s ilk dies, we’re supposed to be sad. But in the media world, I don’t see it. In fact, I see disconcerting excitement. At The Tennessean right now, I assure you some jaska•• publisher is debating whether the special section should be 10 pages, or 12. At ESPN and SI and The Sporting News and a dozen other shops, they’re trying to figure out whether McNair merits special coverage, and if hiked ad rates could be offered in conjunction.
To most of us media types, Steve McNair simply fit the suit. He was another guy with a big arm who we could use to sell magazines and newspapers; who the Titans could use to sell jerseys and T-shirts; who Alcorn State could use to boost enrollment and help recruit.
Obviously, many are genuinely sad. But many are also just along for the ride. It’s a shame.
