Tom Brady’s debut in a Super Bowl broadcast booth was one of the most anticipated storylines for Super Bowl LIX, drawing mixed reviews across social media. Alongside him, Fox Sports play-by-play man Kevin Burkhardt also received a blend of admiration and criticism.
Brady faced significant scrutiny, which was expected for an NFL legend transitioning to a rookie broadcaster with a staggering $375 million contract. This scrutiny even extended to his appearance, as many users questioned whether he had undergone any cosmetic procedures.
Okay Tom, that face is pulled all the way back! #SuperBowlLIX
Y’all think Tom Brady got a little Nip & Tick or 💉 pre #SuperBowl? pic.twitter.com/SYKApqySzf
— The Cosmetic Lane (@TheCosmeticLane) February 9, 2025
Podcaster Joe Pompliano pointed out that Brady sported a $600,000 watch during his first Super Bowl as a broadcaster.
It looks like Tom Brady is wearing a Jacob & Co.
Caviar Tourbillon for his first Super Bowl as a broadcaster.That’s a $600,000 watch. pic.twitter.com/qQngqaZ5Bv
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) February 9, 2025
However, Burkhardt and Brady did not have the advantage of covering a closely contested game, as the Philadelphia Eagles dominated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22. Early in the clash, Brady exhibited assertiveness, disagreeing with a pass interference call on Eagles receiver A.J. Brown.
Didn’t take long to get an officiating controversy.
Both Tom Brady and Mike Pereira disagreed with this offensive pass interference call on the Eagles.pic.twitter.com/TVhZmQXDNI
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 9, 2025
In terms of their booth performance, some reviews were harsh. Awful Announcing solicited fan feedback at halftime, asking: “How would you rate the commentary from Kevin Burkhardt and Tom Brady?” UConn basketball announcer Joe D’Ambrosio succinctly responded with one word: “Awful.”
Awful
— Joe D’Ambrosio (@JoeDSports) February 10, 2025
Despite some negative feedback, there were also positive remarks from viewers. One tweet noted, “Burkhardt is great. All Brady does is tell us what just happened. Sad. Tony Romo is always predicting what’s going to happen.”
Burkhardt is great. All Brady does is tell us what just happened. Sad. Tony Romo is always predicting what’s going to happen.
— Ang (@BigAnglind) February 10, 2025
Conversely, another fan criticized Burkhardt, stating, “Brady is great but could work on his rhythm & cadence. Burkhardt is generally unimpressive and would be ranked mid- to low-tier in a previous generation.” Another common feedback was Brady’s tendency to reference his own career excessively.
Tom Brady has spent the entire night talking about himself.
— Christopher Hale (@chrisjollyhale) February 10, 2025
Overall, the reception on social media for Burkhardt and Brady was mixed, leaving fans with divided opinions.
