Some broadcasters make such an impact on the sport they cover that they end up being just as iconic as any player or coach on the field. That is the case with Chris Berman and the NFL according to Michael Lombardi.
The former NFL scout appeared on The Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday and was asked about his former boss Bill Belichick’s interaction with the ESPN legend during a press conference earlier this week.
A video shows Belichick applauding as Berman entered the room during his opening remarks. He also insisted Berman ask the first question.
“Boomer goes way back with Bill,” Lombardi explained. “I think when he was the head coach in 91, Boomer was always around.”
The gesture wasn’t just about familiarity and/or friendship. Michael Lombardi said it is clear that Bill Belichick respects Chris Berman and the impact he made on football during his tenure at ESPN.
“Bill has a great sense of history for the game, and Boomer’s impact at that station was clearly a part of the history of the game. Let’s face it.”
ESPN hired Chris Berman in 1979. He was one of the original SportsCenter anchors. He was the face of the network’s NFL coverage for 31 years as host of Sunday NFL Countdown. He also hosted Monday NFL Countdown for ten years and anchored ABC’s coverage of Monday Night Football and multiple Super Bowls.
