Earlier this week, reports surfaced that Fox Sports’ Super Bowl LIX broadcast team including Kevin Burkhardt, Erin Andrews, and Tom Rinaldi had been granted access to the Kansas City Chiefs’ and Philadelphia Eagles’ practice sessions. Notably absent from that list? Tom Brady, Fox’s high-profile rookie analyst with a staggering $375 million contract.
The reason behind his exclusion? The NFL has enforced strict limitations on Brady’s access to other teams due to his minority ownership stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. Throughout his debut season as a broadcaster, these restrictions have prevented him from attending practices and even Fox’s private production meetings with players and coaches.
At the heart of the league’s decision is the perception of a conflict of interest. Would Brady gain valuable insider knowledge that could benefit the Raiders? Would teams be hesitant to share information with Fox if he were in the room? While there’s no concrete evidence to suggest this would happen, the NFL is erring on the side of caution—hence, the so-called “Brady Rules.”
However, this week marks a significant shift. Chiefs owner Clark Hunt confirmed that Brady will be allowed to participate in pregame meetings with Kansas City. The Eagles, according to The Athletic, have also given him the green light to join their production meetings—though he’s still banned from both teams’ practices.
Brady Sets the Record Straight on His Raiders Role
So, what exactly is Brady’s involvement with the Raiders? Addressing reporters in New Orleans on Wednesday, he clarified:
“My ownership interest in the Raiders is much more of a long-term, behind-the-scenes role. I’m here to support the team, its leadership, and the overall vision for success. The best part for me is that I love football, and I get to be involved in it for the rest of my life—not just as a broadcaster but also in a limited partner role. I hope more players get the chance to do the same.”
Brady emphasized that Mark Davis is the true owner of the Raiders, and his role is purely supportive.
Fox Sports’ Dilemma: Is Brady Missing Out, or Is This Overblown?
The NFL’s restrictions aren’t entirely unreasonable, but they put Fox Sports in an awkward position. If Brady’s absence from team meetings and practices is truly detrimental to his preparation, then his role as an analyst could be compromised. But if missing those sessions doesn’t impact his performance, then why are his colleagues attending in the first place?
The situation becomes even more complicated when considering Brady’s legendary status, his record-breaking contract, and the fact that he’s replacing Greg Olsen who many believe is the superior analyst. While Brady has reportedly approached his new gig with humility, the league’s restrictions remain both necessary and undeniably awkward.
