Dan Patrick, one of the most recognized sports anchors on television and radio, will be leaving ESPN in August, ending an 18-year relationship with the network.

Speaking on his afternoon radio show, the baritone-voiced personality offered few clues to the reason for his departure, except to say that he wanted to pursue outside interests.

"I've not been a free agent," said Patrick, whose real name is Daniel Patrick Pugh. "[ESPN] has been my home, but I was starting to take it for granted."

Patrick began his career with ESPN in 1989, teaming with Keith Olbermann as co-anchors of "SportsCenter." Most recently, Patrick has hosted his own afternoon radio show on ESPN Radio, with the since-departed Olbermann making frequent appearances. Patrick had planned to announce his departure from ESPN last week, but the network made a last-ditch - but unsuccessful - attempt to keep him.

"Dan has accomplished so much over the past two decades at ESPN and fans and newsmakers have turned to him for his steady and trusted approach," ESPN executive vice president Norby Williamson said in a press release. "We wish him the very best."

During the last week of Patrick's radio show, ESPN will air memorable moments of the program and invite special guests.

"If there was any animosity, I wouldn't be doing a radio show after this one today," Patrick said this afternoon.

There have been numerous rumors about Patrick's future plans, including a suggestion that he could replace Bob Barker as host of "The Price Is Right" game show. (Patrick said he politely declined an inquiry from officials at CBS.)

Here are a few suggestions on how Dan Patrick can pay the bills from here on out:

-Anchor on MSNBC, then Fox Sports, then back to MSNBC
-Tour de France reporter for Versus
-David Stern's psychoanalyst
-Rob Dibble's pool boy
-Replacement for Pat Sajak
-Replacement for Alex Trebek
-"Dancing With the Stars" (he couldn't do worse than Kenny Mayne.)
-President of condo board for Del Boca Vista, Phase III