Terry Bradshaw’s concerns that he could be replaced by new FOX contributor and NFL legend Tom Brady could become a reality following a series of calls for him to retire.
The former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback has been a fixture on TV screens since 1994. However, recent on-air blunders have left his position looking shaky.
The veteran’s popularity with fans has also taken a hit in recent weeks, and Brady’s arrival has only increased the pressure. The ex-Patriot star is the latest NFL player to transition into analysis, and he’s landed a hefty contract for his efforts.
Reports suggest that Brady has secured a 10-year deal worth an eye-watering £290million ($375m) to commentate on games. This follows major deals handed out to former Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks Troy Aikman and Tony Romo in recent years.
Bradshaw, who reportedly earns around £1.5m ($2m) per season working for FOX, has openly welcomed Brady to the FOX Sports NFL team this year. However, he couldn’t hide his worry that Brady’s mega-deal could spell trouble for him and colleague Howie Long.
Bradshaw and Long appeared on the Jimmy Kimmel Show in October to discuss their broadcasting careers. Although, the four-time Super Bowl champion took a reflective approach to his future at FOX.
« If I can keep my health together, I love what I’m doing, » he said. « But we all get old and we’re going to get kicked out. I’m not looking over my shoulder, but [Tom] Brady is coming in for $37.5million.
« I thought it was good [on Brady’s arrival] then I thought it was bad, because they won’t have any money for me and Howie. It is what it is. »
Bradshaw’s love for his current role is evident, and he once made a dark-humoured remark about his ideal exit from the profession, telling Denver Sports 104.3: « I told FOX: ‘If I could just die on the show, think about the ratings, right?' »
Yet, there have been increasing calls for Bradshaw to consider retirement. Former sports presenter Mark Giangreco, who recently transitioned to ESPN radio after leaving ABC7 last year, has been vocal in supporting Bradshaw. Still, he has also expressed concern over what he perceives as a decline in Bradshaw’s performance, urging FOX to protect the 76-year-old from further embarrassment.
« Terry Bradshaw stumbling thru the hilites was funny and folksy at first now it’s really aggravating, uncomfortable and annoying, falling behind and mispronouncing until Curt Menefee (Fox commentator) has to take over and bail him out, » Giangreco posted on X. « It’s sad. I love the original TB. Save him from the embarrassment. »
Giangreco then simply replied with a ‘thumbs-up’ emoji to retired sports anchor Dave Kerner’s comment: « This is when the execs have to step in ». Some fans are also now saying it might be time for Bradshaw to retire.
After one of Bradshaw’s recent TV appearances, a viewer commented on social media, « Is it just me or does it seem like Terry Bradshaw forgetting a lot of things he should know? ». Another remarked: « Terry Bradshaw is a legend, but it’s over ». And a third confessed: « Terry Bradshaw was struggling to get through the first-half highlights. I hate to see that ».
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