David Moulton Obituary, Death – Beloved Sports Broadcaster and NFL Spotter Dies at 59 After Cancer Battle

David Moulton, a respected sports broadcaster and longtime NFL spotter who worked alongside Troy Aikman and Joe Buck, has died at the age of 59 following a six-year battle with stage four renal cell cancer. His death was announced by his wife, Julie, over the weekend, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and listeners who followed his work throughout his career.

Moulton died while receiving hospice care at the Douglas Center for Caring. His wife remembered him as someone who loved life and appreciated the people who supported him throughout his illness. Despite years of treatment and a difficult fight against cancer, he continued trying new treatments and remained determined until the end.

His passing marks the loss of a familiar voice in Southwest Florida sports radio and a highly valued member of professional football broadcasting teams. While many viewers may not have recognized his name, his work behind the scenes helped some of the sport’s most prominent commentators deliver informed and engaging coverage.

Troy Aikman Pays Tribute to David Moulton

Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and ESPN commentator Troy Aikman paid an emotional tribute to Moulton, describing him as his trusted right-hand man in the broadcast booth.

The two worked together on NFL coverage beginning in 2018, developing a professional relationship that grew into a close friendship. Aikman remembered Moulton as loyal, dependable, and a fighter who continued facing his illness with remarkable determination.

Aikman also expressed heartbreak for Moulton’s family and everyone who loved him, acknowledging how much their years working together meant to him.

Their relationship extended beyond the practical responsibilities of broadcasting. Moulton helped Aikman follow important matchups, track game situations, and identify details that could provide useful context during live coverage.

During a Monday Night Football broadcast, Aikman and fellow commentator Joe Buck also took time to remember their late colleague. The tribute highlighted the personal connection they shared with Moulton and the significant place he held in their professional lives.

David Moulton’s Career in Sports Broadcasting

Moulton built a diverse career spanning sports radio, television, college athletics, and national football coverage. He became a familiar figure to sports fans in Southwest Florida through his work as a radio host and sports journalist.

For approximately 20 years, he co-hosted the Miller and Moulton show alongside Mark Miller. Their partnership became an important part of the region’s sports broadcasting landscape, combining detailed sports knowledge with conversation and humor.

Moulton also worked as a sports anchor for ABC 7 in Sarasota and served as the radio voice of Florida Gulf Coast University athletics. His broadcasting experience included appearances on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio and NFL Radio.

In addition, he wrote columns for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press for more than a decade, covering sports and sharing his analysis with readers.

He stepped away from his regular radio work during the summer of 2026 to focus on his health, bringing a pause to a long-running career that had connected him with audiences across the region.

His Work With CBS, Fox Sports, and the NFL

Beyond his radio and television roles, Moulton earned a reputation as a skilled researcher and spotter for major sports broadcasts.

His work with CBS began in 2006 after college football analyst Gary Danielson discovered his radio commentary and recognized his ability to break down games. Following a trial period, Moulton became Danielson’s researcher and spotter for CBS college football coverage, a role he continued for approximately two decades.

He later joined Fox’s NFL broadcasting team, working alongside Joe Buck and Troy Aikman. His responsibilities included providing real-time information, monitoring game developments, and helping commentators identify tactical details during broadcasts.

A spotter’s contribution often happens outside the camera’s view, but it can be essential to the quality of a live telecast. Moulton helped broadcasters keep track of game situations and identify matchups that deserved closer attention.

Despite his extensive knowledge, he was reportedly modest about his contribution, describing himself as a helper rather than taking credit for the work of the commentators he supported.

David Moulton’s Battle With Cancer

Moulton battled stage four renal cell cancer for six years, according to his wife. The disease later spread to his bones, adding to the challenges he faced during the final years of his life.

Julie’s announcement conveyed the depth of her grief and her appreciation for the people who supported their family throughout his illness. She remembered her husband as someone who loved life and valued the connections he shared with others.

Friends and colleagues also recalled his sharp wit, sarcasm, intelligence, and determination. Their tributes reflected the respect he earned both as a broadcaster and as a friend.

Although his illness eventually brought his broadcasting career to an end, the memories he created through his work and relationships remain an important part of his legacy.

Mark Miller and Colleagues Remember a Dear Friend

Mark Miller, Moulton’s longtime radio partner, shared a heartfelt remembrance of their two decades working together. Miller described their time on the air as one of the most enjoyable professional experiences of his life and emphasized Moulton’s extraordinary knowledge of sports.

He also remembered him as a devoted husband and father, highlighting the love Moulton showed when speaking about his wife and daughter.

Other colleagues praised his generosity, intelligence, and willingness to encourage people around him. Their messages revealed how deeply he was valued by those who worked with him across radio, television, and professional sports.

For many, Moulton was much more than the knowledgeable voice behind a broadcast. He was a mentor, a trusted colleague, and a friend whose humor and character made a lasting impression.

David Moulton’s Legacy

David Moulton leaves behind a legacy built on decades of sports journalism and broadcasting. From local radio in Southwest Florida to major NFL and college football telecasts, his career demonstrated the importance of the people who work behind the scenes to bring sports to audiences.

His contributions to broadcasts featuring Troy Aikman, Joe Buck, and Gary Danielson placed him alongside prominent names in sports media, but his influence also reached listeners who knew him through his daily radio work.

Moulton is survived by his wife, Julie, and daughter, along with other family members, friends, and colleagues who are mourning his loss.

Heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends, former broadcasting partners, and everyone who followed his career. David Moulton will be remembered for his knowledge of sports, his dedication to broadcasting, his humor, and the friendships he built throughout his life.