NFL free agency officially kicks off Monday. But before we go there, let’s do a deep dive into NFL television free agency.
Every year, retiring NFL players, coaches, and executives try their hand at the media. Some become superstars who make more money in the media than they did on the field. Think ESPN’s Troy Aikman, Tom Brady, and Greg Olsen of Fox, Tony Romo of CBS, and NBC’s Cris Collinsworth.
Others fall on their faces and/or tap out. Raise a hand Matt Ryan (CBS), Jason Witten (ESPN), and Joe Montana (NBC).
There are chairs that need to be filled. Who will replace Ryan on The NFL Today? Will Fox replace the retired Jimmy Johnson on Fox NFL Sunday? Some could follow the money into the game broadcasts. Others could grab cushier—but lower-paying gigs—as studio analysts.
Here’s a scouting report on the potential free agents sparking buzz among executives from NFL’s media partners at ESPN, CBS, NBC, Fox, and Amazon Prime.
Travis Kelce
From a media perspective, he has it all: Charisma; hit podcast, and three Super Bowl rings. Oh, did we mention he’s engaged to Taylor Swift?
Two years ago, his brother Jason Kelce was the most sought-after free agent, breaking bread in Las Vegas with virtually every network during Super Bowl week before joining ESPN. Look for the same feeding frenzy if the 36-year old Chiefs star retires.
The network suits, however, might have to wait a year. On Wednesday, ESPN’s Chiefs beat reporter Nate Taylor told 96.5 The Fan in Kansas City that Kelce will be back on the field in 2026.
“Every indication I’ve gotten is that Travis Kelce is looking forward to coming back. When we’ll know that for sure? That’s really his prerogative,” Taylor said.
Mike Tomlin
The Super Bowl-winning Steelers coach has long been every network’s No. 1 pick if he chose the broadcast booth over the sideline. It seemed like Tomlin’s big career switch was finally at hand when he left Pittsburgh after 19 seasons. But it’s been radio silence since. Word on the street is that the 53-year old Tomlin wants to take a year off.
Kirk Cousins
Checks most of the boxes for successful NFL analysts: Ex-quarterback; smart; media-friendly. But the 37-year-old says he wants to play again in 2026. After pocketing an eye-watering $321.7 million in earnings over his 14-year career, per Spotrac, Cousins may be more likely to invest in a team than call games.
Jameis Winton
The funny and entertaining Winston has the most upside. He charmed the assembled football media during Fox’s last Super Bowl in New Orleans. But the 32-year-old gunslinger also showed he can still spin it last year and remains under contract with the Giants for 2026. Look for him to return as the G-Men’s backup QB, while moonlighting for his eventual move into the media.
Aaron Rodgers
A year ago, I poked around and found virtually no interest in the polarizing QB among TV networks. But never say never. After all, Fox once hired Jay Cutler as No. 2 analyst.
For what it’s worth, the 42-year-old Steelers QB told Pat McAfee earlier this week he plans to pull a “Keyser Soze” and disappear when he retires. “I’m not doing TV. I’m not going to be out and about,” said Rodgers.
Russell Wilson
Similar to Rodgers, Wilson isn’t for everyone—for different reasons. Rodgers is exhausting, but the 37-year-old Wilson has earned a bad rep from many for his own polarizing personality. He’s now trying to be more authentic. But the damage may have already been done.
Joe Flacco
At first blush, he may not seem like a fit for media, as his personality could be described as dull as dishwater. But he’s got a ring. On the other hand, it sure sounds like the 41-year-old would like to play for at least one more season.
Cam Heyward
The Steelers defensive lineman is actively eyeing a media career, appearing on NBC’s recent Super Bowl pregame show and hosting a podcast with Hayden Walsh, dubbed Not Just Football. The seven-time Pro Bowl selection boasts Hall of Fame-caliber credentials and an engaging personality to match.
