Charissa Thompson has a message for Fox Sports as she potentially hits the free agent market this offseason. The veteran NFL on Fox host’s contract is expiring, and while there are no indications she will not sign a new deal, in broadcasting, anything can happen. Given that, Thompson shared some warm thoughts about Fox on a recent episode of her Calm Down podcast.
“I just have to say one thing — and this is also what I am going on and on about Fox, and I swear, I mean it’s not just because my contract’s up — I love Fox so much because my brother and my dad came to the Super Bowl, and Fox is family to me, so my own family like sharing in those moments,” Thompson said (via Athlon Sports). “It was so fun, and Fox just makes them feel so welcome and makes sure they’re included in the events and everything. So I just would be remiss if I didn’t mention how wonderful my extended work family is to my own family.” That sure sounds as if Thompson would like to return, although if Fox is open to that, there’s obviously more to consider in contract negotiations than perks for family members.
Thompson endured widespread criticism in 2023 when she admitted fabricating sideline reports, and while some fans and media might not forgive her for that transgression, that controversy has mostly blown over. She has maintained her highly visible host duties on Fox NFL Kickoff and NFL Films Presents on Fox Sports and FS1, respectively. (She also hosts Amazon Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football pregame show.)
Coincidentally, Erin Andrews, Thompson’s longtime NFL on Fox colleague, friend, and Calm Down co-host, is also a free agent this offseason. As with Thompson, there’s no reason to assume she will not return to Fox, but you never know. She addressed the issue on Calm Down during the NFL season. “I think my goal is always kind of the same as last year — enjoy (the season) because it’s not going to last forever, especially when your contract is up, and mine is,” Andrews said.
