The debate surrounding Tom Brady’s dual roles as an NFL broadcaster for Fox and a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders intensified this past weekend. While calling Saturday’s Lions-Commanders game, Brady simultaneously sought to have Detroit OC Ben Johnson interviewed for the Raiders’ head coaching position. Acknowledging the situation with broadcasting partner Kevin Burkhardt, Brady notably did not mention Johnson by name.
Prior to the game, opinions were mixed; some media personalities defended Brady, while others labeled the situation untenable. A Fox Sports executive termed the discussion “ridiculous,” and Brady’s agent Don Yee confirmed his return to the booth next season. Although Brady’s conflict may not have been apparent to most Fox viewers, it clearly influenced his comments during the broadcast, prompting WFAN hosts Boomer Esiason and Gregg Giannotti to express skepticism about the situation’s legitimacy.
“They really are sticking to this, that Tom Brady’s gonna continue broadcasting, which to me, is insanity…” – Gregg Giannotti
“Yeah, it’s 100% a conflict of interest…” – Boomer Esiason pic.twitter.com/xqSclhROEB
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 20, 2025
“They really are sticking to this, that Tom Brady’s gonna continue broadcasting, which to me, is insanity if he is pulling the strings and being a major player in the decision-making of an NFL organization,” Giannotti remarked on Monday’s Boomer & Gio. “And then he’s calling games on top of it? It’s weird!” Esiason echoed the sentiment, stating, “Yeah, it’s 100% a conflict of interest, but that $370 million that Fox gave Tom Brady for this 10-year deal probably contributed significantly to the Raiders.” He noted that Brady’s career earnings and popularity likely allow him to command substantial fees for speaking engagements. “He’s pretty good in those settings, but I agree with you. It’s a conflict of interest.” Esiason expressed confusion over the commissioner’s lack of involvement, considering the circumstances surrounding Brady.
Giannotti also highlighted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s history of scrutinizing Brady during his playing days, but Esiason remained convinced that the situation was different now that Brady is an owner. Esiason praised Brady for entering the broadcasting realm, recognizing the potential for public criticism, in contrast to the more niche appeal of the ManningCast, which offers viewers the choice to engage. “They built in the padding for themselves – there’s not going to be many criticisms thrown at them because it’s optional,” Esiason explained. “But Brady has chosen a more traditional broadcasting path, which invites criticism.” Giannotti admitted that he usually tunes out broadcasters unless specific analysis is needed. “I’m in my own world while watching the game, so I guess that’s a compliment to the broadcasters unless they disrupt my viewing experience,” he said, recalling his frustrations with former commentator Booger McFarland.
