Greg Papa is returning to KNBR for the upcoming San Francisco 49ers season. The move comes just a month after his layoff sparked massive national backlash towards Cumulus Media.
What We Know: During the station’s inaugural 49ers Roundtable broadcast, KNBR host Adam Copeland announced that Papa will rejoin the station in a hybrid host-guest role. KNBR’s new one-hour feature, “Lunch With Papa,” will debut later in the month, and will air Monday through Friday from Noon to 1:00pm. The feature pairs Papa with John Lund, whose midday show airs weekdays from 10:00am to 2:00pm. In addition, during football season, Papa will be heard on KNBR in two segments each week in both Morning Drive and Afternoon Drive, where Papa will call in to give “Niners Updates With Greg Papa.”. The announcement comes just two weeks after Papa announced he would be making a return to NBC Sports Bay Area for the season.
What They Said: Adam Copeland: “It’s a pleasure with the blessing of Derek Papa to announce to you that Greg Papa will be returning to KNBR throughout the 49ers season. He’ll be joining all of the shows all season long.”
Greg Papa: “I’m thrilled to be back on The Sports Leader and even more thrilled to be working with my good friend John Lund again. Let’s do this!”
Adam Copeland: “What a pleasure to have Greg back on the KNBR airwaves. He’ll be joining us all season long. We’re thrilled about him joining us, and wishing him well in his health journey.”
Larry Blumhagen, Regional Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus San Francisco/Los Angeles: “Greg Papa is a Bay Area icon in sports broadcasting. His name and voice are synonymous with sports in this market. That connection is even stronger when speaking about the San Francisco 49ers. We are excited to have Greg back on air sharing his insights about all things Niners, and more!”
What Remains Unclear: It is unknown if the return to KNBR is just for the upcoming NFL season or more. The factors behind Papa’s return to Cumulus Media and KNBR also remain unclear. Papa has not responded for additional comment by Barrett Media.
What It Means: KNBR’s rehiring pattern continues. While it’s unknown if Papa’s return to KNBR is more permanent than seasonal, it does follow a pattern of laid off talent returning to the station. Lund and Larry Krueger both returned after prior exits, though each stayed away over a year. Papa’s 36-day turnaround is far faster, and welcomed by the listening audience. When Papa does make his first appearance, it will likely be a huge listening appointment for KNBR.
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