Network executives are always looking for that ‘next best thing.’ Whether it be in technology, by using updated graphics packages, or the way a broadcast is presented to the audience. But it seems as though the one thing most are seeking, is talent, especially analysts that played the sport they will broadcast. While most networks already have a top booth assembled, execs are always looking for the ‘up and comer’ who can add some freshness to a broadcast or a booth.
There are in fact, many athletes that could probably excel in the broadcasting industry. Some of them have recently retired, some are still playing, but have the personality and knowledge to carry it off. So, where will these network folks look for these athletes? Some of them are already cutting their teeth on the air on various channels. Many contribute to shows in the studio, even while still active, and others are looking for a second career.
Fans sometimes have a hard time getting to know their favorite players. Media coverage while they are playing doesn’t always tell the full story of the personality possessed by these players. Many of them are ‘tight lipped’ when it comes to being interviewed while they are active, as to not provide bulletin board material, or take away attention from teammates.
I started thinking about current and former players, mainly because of all the news surrounding Jason Kelce and his reported conversations with ESPN, Fox and others in Vegas last week. Kelce is the kind of personality that would be widely accepted in the field. He has had a successful playing career, and if he decides to hang up the cleats, this is the next logical step for him.
Kelce has been given the stage a few times, even during last season. He appeared on an Amazon Prime broadcast in the booth with Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit. It was a Week 10 game in Chicago, featuring two of the worst teams in the league, the Bears and the Panthers. The game sledged along and for whatever reason, Kelce was being interviewed as though it was a meaningless preseason game.
Fans had varying reactions to the appearance. What it demonstrated to me, was his absolute comfort on camera and in a non-player role. Meaning, it wasn’t a locker room interview it was live and beaming out on broadcast television and streaming on the Amazon platform. He was at ease and was really good.
It would be a no-brainer for some network to pick up Kelce and put him in a prominent role. Maybe start him in the studio, to get comfortable with the flow of a show and then move him to the booth. I know some will say that he’s been over saturated already, but come on, it’s hard to deny the likability factor he brings. Somebody needs to get him on the air for their NFL coverage, that is for sure.
Kelce’s future in the NFL is about as muddied as the future of Joey Votto in Major League Baseball. The veteran first baseman spent all 17-years of his big-league career with the Reds. Votto says he wants to play again in 2024, but the Reds are not going to sign him. I really wish he would forgo his playing career for a job in television. He is incredible when given the chance.
Votto’s personality is unbelievable. He was always talking to fans when he was on-deck or even in the field. A man of the people and a man that is really good behind the mic. While rehabbing from a shoulder injury in 2022 Votto did a couple of stints in the Reds’ TV booth, even doing a little play-by-play. Following one of the games he talked to MLB.com about the experience.
Asked whether he’d consider a ‘second career’ Votto responded, “I don’t know. I don’t even want to think about after my career. I want to play and perform and compete. I don’t miss playing poorly, but I do miss playing well. That’s all that’s on my mind. I want to see how long I can do that for.”
Here’s hoping Votto considers this vocation when he’s done with his current one. He’s got what it takes to be really good. Perhaps the most important to current broadcasts, he respects the industry.
“It’s a lot harder than what’s given credit. The amount of research one has to do to be able to speak on so many different players and so many different organizations — because there is always a new matchup — I find it really challenging.” Votto told MLB.com.
Just a couple of days ago, Adam Wainwright, the former Cardinals pitcher signed up for a dual role this season. He’ll be working for Fox and for MLB Network as an analyst. He was also a natural and is able to relay his experience as a high-level pitcher in the Majors to his audience. He’ll be on Fox for about 15 games and all season with MLB Network. Previously, Wainwright joined the booth for postseason coverage in 2020, 2021, and 2023. He is one to watch for future openings on a number one broadcast team.
JJ Redick also cashed in, when Doc Rivers decided to return to coaching. Redick, the former Duke star and 15-year NBA player was elevated from the 2nd team to the number one broadcast with Mike Breen and Doris Burke. Redick had been an analyst on ESPN’s NBA studio shows since joining the network in 2021. His personality and insight made him an instant ‘riser’ in the business. Redick has a unique gift in his ability to first, really analyze the game and second, to present that analysis in a way that fans understand. Redick may not give up that seat anytime soon. He was a terrific hire.
Another NBA guy to keep an eye on is Richard Jefferson. I think he’s primed for an even bigger role at ESPN. Jefferson has burst onto the scene at ESPN as one of their best analysts. He brings some comedic value to the set with him, but it doesn’t get in the way of his basketball knowledge. The information is fair and accurate even when talking about former teammates.
In NHL circles the name Olczyk carries a lot of weight. Particularly with Eddie Olczyk who has been the top NHL analyst for decades. But there’s another Olczyk out there, that is showing his stuff as an NHL analyst and that’s Nick Olczyk, Edzo’s son. Nick had a stint filling in on television and radio for the Chicago Blackhawks, and under less-than-ideal circumstances, acquitted himself quite nicely.
Nick moved on to the Seattle Kraken where he’s part of their radio and television broadcasts. Nick worked his way up the ladder, first with the Indy Fuel (ECHL) where he showed how much he belonged at the next level. A tireless worker and perfectionist, Olczyk is only scratching the surface of what he can and will become. Keep an eye on him.
Now how about some guys that are currently playing. I wrote about a couple of MLB guys about a year ago. To revisit, I’d love to see Carlos Correa join the ranks of the broadcasting field when he’s done playing. Correa has done stints on TBS during the playoffs and does not seem like a ‘fish out of water’ at all. He’s smooth on camera and did a great job in his limited time. Jazz Chisholm is another slam dunk to join the field if he wants. Bubbling over with personality, the flashy infielder did a solid job in a stint with MLB Network last year.
How cool would it be to see Anthony Rizzo and Freddie Freeman join a network together when they’re both done playing? “Freddie, Frederick!”
George Kittle would be another guy that is seemingly a good fit for broadcasting when he’s done playing. He is bursting with personality and he’s a damn good player too. He really gets it, just judging by the way he handles his media responsibilities.
There are so many others, it’s hard to name them all. I like the fact that this younger generation of player, is much more media savvy than previous ones. Podcasts, Tik Tok, IG, X and Facebook live seem to be preparing these players for a second career, it’s kind of exciting to watch.
Andy Masur is a columnist for BSM and works for WGN Radio as an anchor and play-by-play announcer. He also teaches broadcasting at the Illinois Media School. During his career he has called games for the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres and Chicago White Sox. He can be found on Twitter @Andy_Masur1 or you can reach him by email at Andy@Andy-Masur.com.
