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Megyn Kelly: Fox News ‘Like Watching Russian Propaganda’ After Venezuela Operation

BNM Staff
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Megyn Kelly: Fox News ‘Like Watching Russian Propaganda’ After Venezuela Operation

After the Trump Administration captured Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro over the weekend, it’s safe to say Megyn Kelly didn’t find Fox News’ coverage unbiased.

While discussing the coverage on The Megyn Kelly Show on Monday, the former Fox News host said she would have felt compelled to champion the move if she were still with the network.

“When I was at Fox News — which was a long time, 14 years — I would have known exactly what to do in the wake of Trump’s attack in Venezuela,” she said. “His retrieval — shall we say, to put it in mild terms — of Nicolas Maduro. I would have known that I was supposed to cheerlead it.” 

She then turned her attention to what she saw when she tuned into the coverage. She shared that she didn’t like what she saw on the screen.

“I turned on Fox News yesterday, and I’m sorry, but it was like watching Russian propaganda. There was nothing skeptical. It was all rah-rah cheerleading, ‘Yes! Let’s go!’  And that’s fine. I love our military as much as anyone, and I believe in President Trump, but there are serious reasons to just exercise a note of caution before we just get on the rah-rah train.”

She admitted she had reacted similarly during her tenure with the network, but had learned her lesson after being burned in the past.

“I have done that enough times in my career as a Fox News anchor to have been embarrassed enough to know I’m going to stay on the yellow light for this,” Kelly said. “I’m not in the green-light territory. I’m not in the red-light territory either, but I am staying in the yellow-light territory for now.” 

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Main Street Sports Group Reportedly Misses January Payments To Several NBA Teams

BSM Staff
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Main Street Sports Group Reportedly Misses January Payments To Several NBA Teams

Main Street Sports Group has failed to make its January rights fee payments to multiple NBA teams, sources familiar with the matter told the Sports Business Journal on Monday, as the company’s ongoing potential sale to DAZN raises concerns about its future.

The issue, which first emerged in Major League Baseball last month, now appears to be affecting professional basketball. The missed payments follow a December delay to the St. Louis Cardinals, which prompted the NBA league office to notify all 13 FanDuel Sports Network partner teams on December 18 that January payments could be at risk.

According to the report, that warning proved accurate, with several, if not all, of the teams—including the Hawks, Hornets, Cavaliers, Pistons, Pacers, Clippers, Grizzlies, Heat, Bucks, Timberwolves, Thunder, Magic, and Spurs—not receiving their scheduled fees.

Sources told SBJ Main Street has likely received default notices from Proskauer Rose, the league’s primary law firm, which would trigger a 15-day cure period once formally delivered. In the meantime, the company continues to produce this month’s games for the 13 NBA franchises on the FanDuel Sports Networks.

Financially, Main Street reportedly still owes roughly $180 million to the teams for this season, with SBJ citing the stalled DAZN acquisition as the key obstacle preventing payment. The sale is said to be contingent on factors outside Main Street’s control. With DAZN potentially seeking to acquire all of the teams’ digital rights while negotiating lower rights fee payouts.

Should the DAZN deal collapse, sources told SBJ Main Street plans to wind down operations at the conclusion of the NBA and NHL seasons. Executives reportedly aim to avoid disruptions to broadcasts in the interim. If the acquisition closes, day-to-day operations may remain largely unchanged, aside from a rebranding under DAZN’s name.

Contract expirations also loom. Three of the affected teams—the Grizzlies, Hornets, and Magic—have deals ending this season. Other team deals extend through 2027. That timing fuels speculation that the NBA could launch a national streaming regional sports network as early as the 2027-28 season.

Industry insiders said the league has been cautious in assessing DAZN’s capacity. “It was a serious call with the league back on Dec. 18,” one source told SBJ. “DAZN’s investment was kind of poo-pooed, not as a big thing. They only have about 500,000 U.S. subscribers, and the league isn’t convinced that acquiring rights from Main Street is a clear path forward. If Main Street shutters, the league is prepared to handle streaming and linear production itself.”

According to the reporting, the 2025-26 NBA Rights Fee estimates are as follows for Main Street Partner Teams:

  • Atlanta Hawks: $32M
  • Charlotte Hornets: $16.57M
  • Cleveland Cavaliers: $34M
  • Detroit Pistons: $25.78M
  • Indiana Pacers: $17.47M
  • Los Angeles Clippers: $34.59M
  • Memphis Grizzlies: $11.41M
  • Miami Heat: $55M
  • Milwaukee Bucks: $24M
  • Minnesota Timberwolves: $24.88M
  • Oklahoma City Thunder: $16.67M
  • Orlando Magic: $26.19M
  • San Antonio Spurs: $19.92M

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James Brown, Adrian Wojnarowski, Greg Gumbel, Sid Hartman Elected To NSMA Hall Of Fame

BSM Staff
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James Brown, Adrian Wojnarowski, Greg Gumbel, Sid Hartman Elected To NSMA Hall Of Fame

Veteran sportscaster James Brown of CBS and NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski have been elected to the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame, the organization announced, joining posthumous honorees Greg Gumbel and Sid Hartman. The selections were determined by NSMA members during final December balloting, NSMA Executive Director Dave Goren said.

Brown, who has anchored CBS Sports’ NFL Today since 2006, began his national broadcasting career at WUSA-TV in Washington, D.C., after playing basketball at Harvard University, where he was a three-time All-Ivy League selection. He previously spent 12 seasons as host of FOX NFL Sunday and covered multiple professional and collegiate sports for CBS. Brown’s accolades include three Emmy Awards and the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Pete Rozelle Award in 2016.

Wojnarowski, widely known as “Woj,” spent 15 years in newspapers before joining Yahoo Sports in 2007, where his NBA reporting coincided with the rise of social media. After 11 years at Yahoo, he moved to ESPN, becoming a leading NBA news source before retiring in 2024 to serve as general manager for St. Bonaventure University’s basketball program. He is a three-time NSMA National Sportswriter of the Year and received the Curt Gowdy Insight Award from the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025.

Gumbel, who died in December 2024 at age 78, hosted NFL Today and anchored CBS coverage of the Winter Olympics. After a stint at NBC Sports, he returned to CBS to call NFL and college basketball games. His Hall of Fame induction joins that of his brother, Bryant Gumbel, making them the only siblings in the NSMA Hall of Fame.

Hartman, who passed in 2020, wrote for more than 70 years for the Minneapolis Tribune and Star Tribune, while also appearing on radio and television. At the time of his death, he had more than 21,000 bylines to his name and continued writing columns past his 100th birthday.

Other awards handed out belong to ESPN play-by-play announcer Sean McDonough and Yahoo Sports senior college football reporter Ross Dellenger. Both were named 2025 National Sportscaster and Sportswriter of the Year, respectively, marking first-time national awards for both.

McDonough’s career spans four decades in hockey, football, and basketball coverage, while Dellenger has been recognized for his SEC reporting and contributions to Sports Illustrated and On3.

State-level winners included Virginia Sportswriter of the Year David Teel, Mississippi’s Rick Cleveland, and Oregon’s John Canzano, who also holds two Oregon Sportscaster of the Year awards.

The NSMA will celebrate this year’s honorees during its 66th awards weekend and national convention, scheduled for June 28–29, 2026, at Grandover Resort & Spa in Greensboro. Founded in 1959, the NSMA seeks to support careers in sports media while preserving the industry’s history through awards, mentoring, and educational programs.

The full list of individual state award winners are as follows. Barrett Media offers our congratulations to all the award winners.

ALABAMA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Cole Cubelic, WJOX Radio, Birmingham (1)

ALABAMA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Thomas Ashworth, AL.com, Huntsville (1)

ARIZONA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Jon Bloom, Suns Radio Network, Phoenix (1)

ARIZONA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Doug Haller, The Athletic, Phoenix (6)

ARKANSAS SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Phil Elson, Razorback Network/Learfield, Fayetteville (4)

ARKANSAS SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Christina Long, Hawgs Illustrated, Fayetteville (1)

CALIFORNIA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Greg Papa, KNBR Radio, San Francisco (4)

CALIFORNIA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Ann Killion, San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco (4)

COLORADO SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Dave Logan, Broncos/KOA Radio, Denver (5)

COLORADO SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Kyle Newman, Denver Post, Denver (1)

CONNECTICUT SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Gabby Lucivero, WVIT-TV, Hartford (1)

CONNECTICUT SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Dom Amore, Hartford Courant (8)

DELAWARE SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Matt Janus, Blue Rocks Radio, Wilmington (4)

DELAWARE SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Andy Walter, The Delaware State News, Dover (5)

D.C. SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Bob Carpenter, Nationals TV, Washington (2)

John Walton, Capitals Radio Network, Washington (2)

D.C. SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Nicki Jhabvala, Washington Post (1)

FLORIDA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Jamie Seh, WKMG-TV, Orlando (1)

FLORIDA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Rick Stroud, Tampa Bay Times, St. Petersburg (2)

Dave Hyde, South Florida Sun Sentinel, Ft. Lauderdale (5)

GEORGIA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Sam Crenshaw, CBS Atlanta, Atlanta (1)

Steve Holman, Atlanta Hawks Radio, Atlanta (6)

GEORGIA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Ken Sugiura, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Atlanta (2)

HAWAII SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Kanoa Leahey, Spectrum Sports, Honolulu (4)

HAWAII SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Stephen Tsai, Star-Advertiser, Honolulu (9)

IDAHO SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Abe Jackson, Boise State Radio Net/Learfield, Boise (1)

IDAHO SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, Boise (1)

ILLINOIS SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Brian Barnhart, Illini Radio Net/Learfield, Champaign (2)

ILLINOIS SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Kevin Fishbain, The Athletic, Chicago (2)

INDIANA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Rob Blackman, Purdue Sports Network/Learfield, W. Lafayette (1)

Chris Denari, Pacers TV Network, Indianapolis (2)

INDIANA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

James Boyd, The Athletic, Indianapolis (1)

IOWA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Shannon Ehrhardt, KCCI-TV, Des Moines (1)

Keith Murphy, WHO-TV, Des Moines (6)

IOWA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Tommy Birch, Des Moines Register, Des Moines

KANSAS SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Mike Kennedy, Wichita State Radio Net/Playfly, Wichita (2)

KANSAS SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Kellis Robinett, Wichita Eagle, Wichita (1)

KENTUCKY SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Greg Stotelmyer, EKU Radio Network, Richmond (2)

KENTUCKY SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Jon Hale, Courier-Journal, Louisville (2)

LOUISIANA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Fletcher Mackel, WDSU-TV, New Orleans (1)

LOUISIANA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Jeff Duncan, NOLA Advocate, New Orleans (3)

MAINE SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Jack Webb, WFVX-TV/WVII-TV, Bangor (1)

MAINE SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Drew Bonifant, Portland Press Herald, Portland (1)

MARYLAND SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Melanie Newman, Orioles/MASN (1)

MARYLAND SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Jacob Meyer, Baltimore Sun, Baltimore (1)

MASSACHUSETTS SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Tom Caron, Bruins/NESN, Boston (1)

Dave O’Brien, Red Sox/NESN, Boston (1)

MASSACHUSETTS SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Kevin Dupont, Boston Globe (7)

MICHIGAN SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Brad Galli, WXYZ-TV, Detroit (3)

MICHIGAN SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

John Niyo, Detroit News, Detroit (1)

MINNESOTA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Mike Grimm, Gopher Sports Properties/Learfield (5)

MINNESOTA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Phil Miller, Minnesota Star Tribune, Minneapolis (1)

MISSISSIPPI SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Bart Gregory, Mississippi State Radio Network/Learfield, SEC+, Starkville (3)

MISSISSIPPI SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Rick Cleveland, Mississippi Today, Jackson (15)

MISSOURI SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Art Hains, Missouri State Radio, Springfield (1)

Tamar Sher, KMOV-TV, St. Louis (1)

MISSOURI SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, Kansas City (1)

MONTANA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Riley Corcoran, Grizzly Sports Properties/Learfield (4)

MONTANA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Braden Shaw, Bozeman Daily Chronicle, Bozeman (1)

NEBRASKA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

John Baylor, Husker Radio Net/Playfly, Lincoln (1)

NEBRASKA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Robin Washut, HuskerOnline, Lincoln (1)

NEVADA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Q Myers, Raider Nation Radio 920, Las Vegas (1)

NEVADA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Ed Graney, Las Vegas-Review Journal, Las Vegas (9)

NEW HAMPSHIRE SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Mike Murphy, UNH Wildcat Radio Net/Learfield, Durham (10)

NEW HAMPSHIRE SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Bruce Wood, Big Green Alert, Hanover (1)

NEW JERSEY SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Matt Loughlin, Devils Radio Network, Newark (4)

NEW HAMPSHIRE SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Keith Sargeant, NJ Advance Media, Newark (2)

NEW MEXICO SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Adam Diehl, KQTM-FM, Rio Rancho (1)

NEW MEXICO SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

James Yodice, Albuquerque Journal, Albuquerque (1)

NEW YORK SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Chris Carrino, Nets Radio Network, Brooklyn (1)

Matt Park, Syracuse University Radio Network/Learfield, Syracuse (1)

NEW YORK SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR (TIE)

Rich Cimini, ESPN NY, New York (2)

Steve Serby, New York Post, New York (1)

NORTH CAROLINA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Mike Maniscalco, Hurricanes/FanDuel Sports Network, Raleigh (1)

NORTH CAROLINA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Aaron Beard, Associated Press, Raleigh (1)

NORTH DAKOTA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Sam Neidermann, ND State Radio Net/Learfield, Fargo (1)

NORTH DAKOTA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Mojo Hill, Devils Lake Journal, Devils Lake (1)

OHIO SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Jeff Brantley, Reds/FanDuel Sports Network, Cincinnati (1)

OHIO SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Rob Oller, Columbus Dispatch, Columbus (1)

OKLAHOMA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Mark Rodgers, WWLS Radio, OKC (1)

OKLAHOMA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Jenni Carlson, The Oklahoman, Oklahoma City (2)

OREGON SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Travis Demers, Trail Blazers Radio Network, Portland (1)

OREGON SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

John Canzano, JohnCanzano.com, Portland (7*)

PENNSYLVANIA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

John Clark, NBCSports Philadelphia (3)

PENNSYLVANIA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Matt Gelb, The Athletic, Philadelphia (3)

RHODE ISLAND SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Nick Coit, WEEI/ESPN Plus, Providence (5)

RHODE ISLAND SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Brendan McGair, Pawtucket Times/Woonsocket Call, Pawtucket/Woonsocket (6)

SOUTH CAROLINA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Reggie Anderson, WLTX, Columbia (1)

SOUTH CAROLINA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Larry Williams, Tiger Illustrated, Clemson (2)

SOUTH DAKOTA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Jay Elsen, Midco Sports, Sioux Falls (1)

SOUTH DAKOTA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

James Cimburek, Press & Dakotan, Yankton (2)

TENNESSEE SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Pete Weber, Predators Radio Network, Nashville (10)

TENNESSEE SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Gentry Estes, The Tennessean, Nashville (1)

TEXAS SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Andrew Monaco, Texas A&M Radio Net/Learfield, College Station (1)

TEXAS SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Cedric Golden, Austin American-Stateman, Austin (1)

UTAH SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Sam Farnsworth, KSL-TV, Salt Lake City (1)

UTAH SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Jay Drew, Deseret News, Salt Lake City (4)

VERMONT SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Brian McLaughlin, UVM/Vermont Green/Lake Monsters, Burlington (1)

VERMONT SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Michael Beniash, Caledonian Record, St. Johnsbury (3)

VIRGINIA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Bill Roth, VT Radio Net/Playfly, Blacksburg (13)

VIRGINIA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

David Teel, Virginian-Pilot, Norfolk (16)

WASHINGTON SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Aaron Goldsmith, Mariners TV Network, Seattle (1)

WASHINGTON SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Ryan Divish, Seattle Times, Seattle (1)

WEST VIRGINIA SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Travis Jones, WV Metronews, Bridgeport (1)

WEST VIRGINIA SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Greg Carey, WV Metronews, Morgantown (1)

WISCONSIN SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Tim Van Vooren, WITI-TV, Milwaukee (4)

WISCONSIN SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Todd Rosiak, Journal Sentinel, Milwaukee (2)

WYOMING SPORTSCASTER OF THE YEAR

Keith Kelly, KFBC Radio & Cowboy Radio Net/Learfield, Cheyenne/Laramie (5)

WYOMING SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR

Cody Tucker, 7220sports.com, Cheyenne-Laramie (2)

* won 2 Oregon Sportscaster of Year awards

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

MLB Network To Celebrate Shohei Ohtani With Full Programming Day January 7

BSM Staff
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MLB Network To Celebrate Shohei Ohtani With Full Programming Day January 7

MLB Network will dedicate Wednesday, January 7, to one of baseball’s most extraordinary talents with a full slate of Shohei Ohtani-focused programming, beginning at 9 a.m. ET. The tribute, dubbed “Shohei Day,” honors Ohtani’s iconic No. 17, which he has worn since his Major League debut in 2018.

The network-wide celebration will feature Ohtani’s most memorable games, original storytelling, guest appearances, and studio segments across MLB Network shows and social media platforms.

Ohtani, a two-way phenom, has redefined what is possible on the diamond. He dazzles audiences both on the mound and at the plate. He is a two-time World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers, a four-time unanimous MVP, and a four-time AP Male Athlete of the Year. These accomplishments cement his status as one of the most influential players in modern baseball.

Key highlights include two of Ohtani’s most historic performances. At 3 p.m. ET, MLB Network will air his September 19, 2024, achievement, when he became the first player in Major League history to reach the 50/50 Club. Later, at 9 p.m. ET, the network will broadcast Game 4 of the 2025 National League Championship Series, in which Ohtani recorded 10 strikeouts and hit three home runs, showcasing his rare two-way skill set.

Throughout the day, network programs will examine Ohtani’s career from multiple angles. Hot Stove at 10 a.m. ET and MLB Tonight at 5 p.m. ET will feature analysis and storytelling segments, including “Greg’s List,” where host Greg Amsinger spotlights Ohtani’s career-defining moments. Former pitcher Chris Young will provide an in-depth breakdown of Ohtani’s evolution into a generational talent.

The day’s programming will culminate with a two-hour special, Best of Shohei, at 7 p.m. ET, which will showcase extended plays and full sequences from Ohtani’s most unforgettable moments. The special aims to give fans a deeper look at the performances that have defined his career and impact on the sport.

“Shohei Day” will also stream on MLB.TV and via the MLB App as part of MLB Network’s direct-to-consumer offerings. The day’s full schedule includes:

  • 9 a.m./6 a.m. – The Leadoff Spot
  • 10 a.m./7 a.m. – Hot Stove, including a Shohei Ohtani segment
  • 2 p.m./11 a.m. – MLB Network Countdown: 2025 Postseason Performers
  • 3 p.m./12 p.m. – September 19, 2024: Ohtani joins the 50/50 Club
  • 5 p.m./2 p.m. – MLB Tonight, featuring Shohei Ohtani
  • 7 p.m./4 p.m. – MLB Tonight: Best of Shohei
  • 9 p.m./6 p.m. – October 17, 2025: Ohtani’s 10 strikeout, three-home-run NLCS Game 4
  • 12 a.m./9 p.m. – September 19, 2024: Ohtani’s 50/50 Club milestone

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CBS Sports’ Matt Ryan Expected To Be Hired As Atlanta Falcons President Of Football Operations

BSM Staff
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CBS Sports’ Matt Ryan Expected To Be Hired As Atlanta Falcons President Of Football Operations

The Atlanta Falcons appear ready to reconnect with one of the most influential figures in franchise history, this time far from the huddle. CBS Sports analyst Matt Ryan is expected to be hired as the team’s first president of football operations, according to several reports.

The move follows Atlanta’s decision to dismiss general manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Raheem Morris. The firings signal a sweeping reset of the organization’s football leadership structure. Falcons owner Arthur Blank confirmed Monday the team will add a new layer atop football operations. The president of football operations will hold final authority over on-field decisions. Both the head coach and general manager will report directly to that position.

“The leader in this new role will set the vision and identity for our team,” Blank said in a statement. He said the position is designed to align football and business operations. The role aims to deliver consistent on-field success and strengthen fan engagement. Blank also said the organization intends to move quickly. The new executive will help guide the hiring of the next head coach and general manager

Ryan’s name has been connected to the role for weeks. FOX Sports NFL insider Jay Glazer reported in December that conversations were already underway between the Falcons and their former quarterback about a potential front office return.

If finalized, the hire would represent one of the most high-profile transitions from franchise quarterback to senior executive in recent NFL history.

The Falcons have not reached the postseason since 2017. The franchise has posted losing records in each of the five seasons Fontenot served as general manager. Morris led the team for the final two years of that stretch, but failed to reverse the downward trend.

Ryan, currently an NFL analyst for CBS Sports, remains the most accomplished quarterback the franchise has ever known. Drafted third overall in 2008, he led Atlanta to six playoff appearances over 14 seasons, including a run to Super Bowl LI during his 2016 MVP campaign.

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Prime Video Viewership Sets Platform’s Record for Most Watched Thursday Night NFL Season Ever

BSM Staff
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Prime Video Viewership Sets Platform’s Record for Most Watched Thursday Night NFL Season Ever

Prime Video continues to solidify its position as a major player in live sports, delivering the most-watched season in the 20-year history of the NFL’s Thursday Night Football franchise.

The 2025 edition of Thursday Night Football on Prime Video averaged 15.33 million viewers across 15 regular-season games, according to Nielsen. That figure represents a 16% increase from the previous season. It also marks the third straight year of double-digit growth for the streaming-exclusive package. Since Prime Video assumed exclusive rights in 2022, TNF viewership has climbed 60%. This growth underscores the platform’s accelerating momentum with NFL audiences.

Beyond overall reach, Prime Video continues to make meaningful inroads with younger viewers. This area is increasingly important to the league and its media partners. The 2025 season posted gains across all major adult demographics under 55. Those gains included viewers ages 18–34, 18–49, and 25–54.

Prime Video reports that its TNF audience skews nearly seven years younger than NFL games airing on broadcast or cable television and roughly 15 years younger than prime-time broadcast programming during the fall.

At the same time, growth was not limited to younger demographics. Viewership among fans aged 55 and older rose 19% year over year, signaling broader adoption of the streaming platform across age groups.

“This season reached new heights,” said Jay Marine, head of Prime Video U.S., Global Sports and Advertising, citing continued innovation and collaboration with the NFL as key drivers of growth. Marine added that the positive response reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to improving the viewing experience.

The season was bookended by record-setting games. Prime Video’s 2025 kickoff matchup between Washington and Green Bay averaged 17.76 million viewers. The Christmas night game between Denver and Kansas City drew a franchise-best 21.06 million. Overall, the season reached 122.09 million unique U.S. viewers. That total marked an increase of more than 50 million from Prime Video’s inaugural TNF season.

Prime Video’s studio programming also experienced significant gains. TNF Nightcap averaged 2.75 million viewers, up 35% from 2024 and 64% since its debut. TNF Tonight, which leads into game coverage each week, averaged 1.90 million viewers, reflecting a 24% year-over-year increase and a 69% jump since 2022.

Additionally, the third annual Black Friday Football game continued to trend upward. The November 28 contest averaged 16.33 million viewers as part of a daylong Prime Video sports slate. That figure represented a 21% increase from last year and a 70% gain over the event’s first outing.

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Versant CEO Mark Lazarus: ‘Today Marks a Defining Moment’ as Company Begins Trading on Nasdaq

BNM Staff
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Versant CEO Mark Lazarus: ‘Today Marks a Defining Moment’ as Company Begins Trading on Nasdaq

Monday marked a landmark day for Versant, as the company officially began operations independent of Comcast and NBCUniversal.

Versant officially began trading as a public company on Monday morning, with executives gathering at Nasdaq to officially ring in the new organization.

As company leaders made their appearance, Versant CEO Mark Lazarus remarked on the importance of the occasion.

“Today marks a defining moment as Versant becomes an independent, publicly traded media company,” Lazarus said. “As a standalone company, we enter the market with the scale, strategy, and leadership to grow and evolve our business model.”

The new company now encompasses the former cable assets of NBCUniversal, including channels like MS NOW and CNBC, among several others.

The company said it is a strong position as it begins its new independent endeavor.

“This milestone reflects the financial strength and readiness of Versant as a standalone public company,” said Versant COO/CFO Anand Kini. “With a strong balance sheet, substantial cash flow, and clear capital allocation framework, we are well positioned to execute with discipline to drive long-term value.” 

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The Erick Erickson Show Adds New Affiliates to Begin 2026

BNM Staff
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The Erick Erickson Show Adds New Affiliates to Begin 2026

2025 was a year of expansion for The Erick Erickson Show, as it nearly doubled its list of affiliates. 2026 is off to a similar start.

As the calendar turns to the new year, the program has added several new affiliates throughout the country.

For the daily show, 940 WMAC in Macon is adding the program from 3-6 PM beginning on Monday. The Charlie Kirk Show was previously heard in the daypart on the Cumulus Media news/talk station. The “Best Of” edition of the show will also air on Saturdays at 6-9 AM and Sundays from 6-9 PM.

Talk Radio 92.3 in Knoxville is adding the program in the 3-6 PM window as well. That station also airs the “Best Of” version of the program on Saturdays from 4-7 PM.

The Virginia Talk Radio Network — which includes three stations in the greater Lynchburg area — is adding the show in the 9-11 PM timeslot beginning on Monday. It will also add the weekend program on Saturdays from 7-10 PM and Sundays at 3-6 PM.

Talk 107.3 in Baton Rouge is adding the program to afternoon drive on Monday, February 2nd, from 4-6 PM. It will also continue airing the “Best Of” offering on Saturdays from 4-6 PM.

Meanwhile, two other stations are adding the Best of The Erick Erickson Show on weekends. Delaware’s The Talk of Delmarva is adding the program on Saturdays from 6-9 AM. Newstalk 1470 WRGA in Rome, Georgia — which airs the daily program — is adding the weekend edition of the show on Sunday evenings from 6-9 PM.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Tanner Chambers Named New Morning Host On 98.9 The Bull

BMM Staff
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Tanner Chambers Named New Morning Host On 98.9 The Bull

Hubbard Radio’s 98.9 The Bull announced a new live morning program, Tanner & Friends, hosted by Tanner Chambers. The show, which began airing today, is entirely produced in Seattle and emphasizes authentic connection with listeners.

Chambers designed the program to feel like a conversation among friends.

“Radio should feel like a conversation you want to jump into,” he said in a release. “I want people to feel like they’re riding along with friends every morning, laughing, sharing stories, and starting the day together.”

The show’s focus is on community and routine rather than high-energy stunts or exaggerated hype. Chambers said it aims to grow naturally alongside its audience, emphasizing authenticity, relatability, and a sense of belonging.

For Hubbard Radio leadership, Chambers represents a fresh direction in Seattle morning radio. “Tanner coming home feels right,” said Nick Beyer, vice president and market manager. “He represents the next generation of Seattle morning radio—authentic, local, and built around real connection.”

Scott Mahalick, operations manager and brand content director at The Bull, praised Chambers’ regional ties. “This show represents exactly what we want mornings on The Bull to feel like,” Mahalick said. “Tanner brings heart, relatability, and a genuine love for this region. He sounds like the Pacific Northwest because he was born here, raised here, and now works here.”

Listeners can expect a blend of humor, storytelling, and community-focused segments. Chambers said the format is intentionally conversational, giving guests and co-hosts space to interact naturally. The show also plans to highlight local events, news, and culture, reflecting the values of the Pacific Northwest community.

Last November, Chambers left mornings at Townsquare Media Country K99 in Windsor/Fort Collins after two and a half years. Before arriving in Colorado, Chambers spent four years hosting mornings at Country Froggy 92.9 and afternoons at Hot 101.7 in Santa Rosa, California. He also built experience behind the scenes as a producer and writer for the syndicated programs The Hit List with Fitz and Fitz in the Morning at 100.7 The Wolf in Seattle.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Connoisseur Media Names Tina Murley as Senior Vice President/Bay Area Market Manager

BNM Staff
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Connoisseur Media Names Tina Murley as Senior Vice President/Bay Area Market Manager

Connoisseur Media has announced it is appointing Tina Murley to serve as its Senior Vice President of the West Region, which includes working as the Market Manager of the company’s stations in San Francisco and San Jose.

Murley had most recently served as the Chief Revenue Officer of Beasley Media Group. Other previous stops include executive roles at CBS television, CBS Radio, and Hearst Media, among others.

In her new role, Murley will oversee the already established Connoisseur Media stations in San Jose, as well as the company’s pending acquisition of the previous Bonneville International stations in San Francisco.

“Tina is exactly the kind of leader we look for at Connoisseur,” said CEO Jeff Warshaw. “She brings exceptional operational instincts and a people-first leadership style that aligns perfectly with our culture. We could not be more excited to welcome her to the Connoisseur family as we continue to grow our presence on the West Coast.”

“I am thrilled to be joining Connoisseur Media at such an exciting moment in the company’s growth,”
added Murley.  “Connoisseur’s commitment to local markets, strong teams, and authentic community
connection truly resonates with me. I’m excited to take on Western Regional responsibilities while leading
the San Francisco and San Jose markets and look forward to building something special with this team.”

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

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