Marty Smith to remain with ESPN next year

Even though ESPN's NASCAR broadcasting duties are finished at the end of this season, the network announced that lead NASCAR reporter Marty Smith has agreed to a new contract and will stay on as a bureau reporter.

Smith’s new role will expand to other sports, including pro and college football and basketball, and he will still cover NASCAR.

The changes will take effect on Jan. 1, 2015.

“I love sports and the intensity therein, and I'm thrilled by the prospect of diversifying in the coming years, while still maintaining my passion for motorsports," said Smith in an e-mail release. "I appreciate the opportunity, and I don't take it lightly."