Terry Bradshaw has extended his deal with FOX Sports through the Super Bowl. However, the Hall of Famer admits the process rattled him this time.
What We Know: Bradshaw recently opened up to the Los Angeles Times about his new contract. Notably, the extension keeps him on FOX NFL Sunday for two more years. He has been a fixture on the network’s pregame show since FOX landed NFL rights in 1994. Before that, he spent nearly a decade as an analyst at CBS. Bradshaw admitted this last negotiation with FOX Sports brought out his nerves for the first times since working with the network.
What They Said: (All quotes via the Los Angeles Times):
Terry Bradshaw on extending his contract with FOX Sports: “I love my job. This year was the first year that I got nervous. I wanted to extend my contract. So I signed through the Super Bowl. Two more years. I’ll be 80.”
Terry Bradshaw understands that life in television is no different than any business: “Everybody in any business has to go. The young guys are coming. But I want to be relevant. I want to be good, and continue on. I want America to [tune in] and watch me, and want them to [like] me. And I can’t wait to do the show.”
Terry Bradshaw on people only remembering him from television: “Generations of young people have no idea I even played football. They know me as the TV guy.”
What Remains Unclear: Bradshaw did not disclose financial terms of the extension. Furthermore, he gave no indication whether this deal will be his last. Similarly, it is unclear how FOX plans to shape its pregame lineup beyond this agreement.
What It Means: Ultimately, Bradshaw remains one of the most recognizable names and voices in sports television. His candor offers a rare look at the pressure veteran broadcasters face. Even legends, it turns out, feel the push from younger talent. Even so, the extension signals FOX still sees real value in his presence on Sundays. Whether or not this will be Bradshaw’s last deal remains to be seen. Earlier this year, Bradshaw told Sports Business Radio that he doesn’t have plans to retire anytime soon.
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