In June, Charissa Thompson was reported to be the studio host for the pre- and post-game coverage for the streaming service, while others, including former running back Marshawn Lynch, are expected to play a role on the network, as well.
This offseason has been big for free agent movement, but also broadcast movement, as well: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman make the jump from Fox to ESPN to tackle “Monday Night Football,” while Drew Brees is officially out at NBC. Tom Brady is set to join Fox (eventually), while the Kevin Burkhardt is the network’s new No. 1 play-by-play man.
Broadcasters
Michaels was target 1A for the streaming service from the jump, with the long-time voice of primetime football reportedly getting “Joe Buck money” for signing on with the network.
No sideline reporter has been announced yet, but the New York Post reports Kaylee Hartung may be jumping back into the sports sphere after working as a correspondent for ABC News. Hartung also worked for SEC Network.
Studio
The pregame, postgame and halftime is rumored to be comprised of an interesting mix of former players, and the network is also planning to have alternative broadcast.
— Tony Gonzalez is also reportedly set to join the group. The Hall of Fame tight end took a year away from broadcasting to focus on other endeavors. He was previously with Fox Sports.
— Ryan Fitzpatrick is another name that could be involved in some capacity. Fitzpatrick recently retired from football after a lengthy career as both a starter and backup passer.
— Pat McAfee, former punter and current podcast host, wrestler and wrestling broadcaster, was also being targeted for an alternative broadcast similar to “ManningCast,” reports say. It’s unclear how McAfee would fit the broadcast into his weekly schedule.
