NFL broadcasting has become a second career for many former players, but the path to the biggest television booths remains a subject of debate. Some of the league’s most recognizable analysts have quarterback backgrounds, while others built their profiles through playing careers at different positions.
This divide has prompted questions about what networks actually value when choosing their voices for major games.
Cam Newton Challenges Networks Over Hiring Practices
Former NFL MVP Cam Newton has questioned why several prominent broadcasting roles continue to go to white former players while accomplished Black players struggle to receive comparable opportunities.
On his 4th & 1 Show, Newton examined whether networks prioritize a player’s position, resume, or personality when selecting analysts.
“Is it the position you played? Is it your resume as a player? Or is it just the likability?” Newton asked. He then pointed to Kirk Herbstreit, Tom Brady, Tony Romo, Troy Aikman, and Cris Collinsworth while questioning why players such as Charles Davis, Robert Griffin III, Jonathan Vilma, and Jason McCourty are not viewed similarly.
Newton also challenged the idea that quarterbacks automatically make better analysts. “Do you not think Ryan Clark is capable? We’ve seen it,” he said. “Brandon Marshall, he’s a sharp guy. You got a guy like Emmanuel Acho, whose vernacular can hold its own with whoever.”
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His point extended to former defensive stars as well. “Do you always have to be a quarterback? Well, J.J. Watt’s not a quarterback. Luke Kuechly is not a quarterback. So what’s the metric here?” Newton said.
Newton’s comments drew responses from former players who have experienced the broadcasting industry themselves.
Hall of Famer Terrell Owens said his own career away from television has been shaped by the same issue Newton described.
“They can. They’ve displayed it, but you know what it is,” Owens wrote. “I’ve had discussions surrounding this exact topic with people who have asked why I haven’t done broadcasting, and this is why.”
They can. They’ve displayed it but you know what it is. It’s interesting you’re speaking on this because I’ve had discussions surrounding this exact topic with people who have asked why I haven’t done broadcasting and this is why. https://t.co/prHOwxUpwq
— Terrell Owens (@terrellowens) September 4, 2026
Former NFL safety Su’a Cravens offered a more personal account. He said networks told him he needed more experience despite seeing less-experienced candidates receive national opportunities soon afterward.
“I know what it is. I’m not a part of the ‘good ol boys club,’” Cravens wrote. “I get it. I’m outspoken and don’t push agendas I don’t believe in. The safe choice is going with the plain Jane Rolly instead of the bus down AP. I’m ok with that, because when I do get on, it’ll be off the strength of what I created. Not because a higher-up gave me the nod or did me any favors.
“The fans appreciate authenticity when it comes to sports, and that’s what I aim to be known for. HONEST SPORTS TAKES! All of the politics just motivate me to be great. Can’t stop what’s already written.”
I myself have interviewed with certain networks just to be told “I needed more experience” and in the same breath , I witnessed those same networks hire people with far less experience than me and get national appearances almost immediately. I know what it is. I’m not apart of… https://t.co/zpaEbEnXbd
— Su’a Kristopher Cravens (@SuaKCravens) September 4, 2026
Former NFL defensive back Will Blackmon provided another perspective, noting that he auditioned for every network, sometimes three times, and described the process as “100% a personal preference.”
Blackmon wrote, “Shoutout to The CW Sports and Tupelo Raycom for believing in ya boy. Strahan [Michael] for sure paved the way for my generation. I auditioned for every network, sometimes three times, and it’s 100% a personal preference. I have like five more, but not enough characters.”
1. Shoutout to @TheCW_Sports & Tupelo Raycom for believing in ya boy.
2. Strahan For sure paved the way for my generation
3. I auditioned for every network, sometimes 3 times and it’s 100% a personal preference.
I have like 5 more but not enough characters 😂 https://t.co/BrQ4G0V0Vx
— Will Blackmon (@WillBlackmon) September 4, 2026
Together, the responses show why Newton’s question has resonated with former players who believe talent alone does not always determine who reaches the biggest broadcasting stages.
