ESPN to Revamp Its NFL “B” Team
ESPN is reworking its secondary NFL broadcast group after changes to its game schedule. Andrew Marchand of Filmogaz.com reports the current trio is expected to be altered.
The network is ending Monday Night Football doubleheaders. It will also televise games beyond Monday night. Those moves have created logistical conflicts for on-air talent.
Why the lineup must change
The new package likely includes seven Sunday morning international games. Those matchups require long travel and early windows. The schedule would limit studio availability and prep time.
Chris Fowler is currently ESPN’s top play-by-play announcer. The early international windows would sideline him for many assignments. Dan Orlovsky and Louis Riddick Jr. face reduced studio time because of travel.
Potential replacements and contenders
Several names have surfaced as possible additions. The network appears ready to revamp its NFL ‘B’ team to accommodate the new rights.
- Jason Kelce has emerged as a dark horse candidate for a studio seat.
- Kurt Warner is reportedly in the mix for a broadcast role.
- Dave Pasch and Mike Monaco are contenders for the play-by-play position.
Fowler, Orlovsky, and Riddick could still appear for select games. Sources say no final decisions have been made.
Uncertainties and next steps
Nothing is official yet. ESPN and the league are still finalizing assignments.
The changes are an obvious consequence of the recent merger between the NFL and ESPN. How the network structures its talent for international windows remains to be seen.
