Since its inception in 2003, the NFL Network has elevated fan interest across the league. One way it generates intrigue is by giving fans a detailed outlook on every game.
That includes the non-Sunday contests. The network goes with a deep lineup of analysts, reporters, and former NFL stars to give their takes on the action ahead for Monday and Thursday night games.
Here’s who will comprise the “NFL GameDay Kickoff” lineup during the 2024 season.
Who Is on ‘NFL GameDay Kickoff’?
Host | MJ Acosta-Ruiz
Acosta-Ruiz has become one of the new faces of pregame coverage on the NFL Network.
The former Miami Dolphins cheerleader first joined the network in 2018. Her hire additionally made history for the network in 2020, as she became the first person of Afro-Latina descent to host a show on the NFL Network.
Prior to hosting “GameDay Kickoff,” Acosta-Ruiz covered the San Francisco 49ers and Oakland Raiders in the Bay Area. She also worked for NBC 7 and Telemundo 20 in San Diego when the Chargers were in the city.
Analyst | David Carr
Carr is among the former NFL players helping provide his meticulous analysis ahead of contests scheduled for Mondays, Thursdays, or even Fridays and Saturdays.
The former No. 1 overall pick in 2002, plus the first-ever selection the Houston Texans made, has been with the network since 2016.
Carr owns one Super Bowl ring with the 2011 New York Giants, where he was the backup quarterback to Eli Manning. Carr also suited up for the Carolina Panthers and 49ers, plus had one more stint with the Giants in 2012 — his last season in the league.
Analyst | Steve Mariucci
“Mooch” gives a coaching perspective on “GameDay Kickoff.”
Before diving into a career in broadcasting, Mariucci guided the 49ers to four playoff appearances, including leading the team to the 1997 season NFC Championship Game. Mariucci also coached the Detroit Lions from 2003 to 2005.
Mariucci is additionally a regular on “GameDay Morning.”
Who Is on the ‘NFL GameDay Kickoff’ Crew on Thursdays?
The Thursday lineup features a far different group of hosts and analysts. Here’s the complete crew who provide their takes ahead of the primetime matchup.
Host | Colleen Wolfe
Wolfe has become a renowned personality on the NFL Network. She’s covered training camps and Super Bowls and hosts the Thursday preview show.
Wolfe was originally with Fox 29 and Comcast SportsNet before crossing over to NFL Network in 2014.
Analyst | Steve Smith Sr.
Smith Sr., or “Smitty,” helps add his blunt takes before each TNF game on “GameDay Kickoff.”
The three-time All-Pro played in Super Bowl XXXVIII with the Carolina Panthers before finishing out his career with the Baltimore Ravens from 2014-16.
Analyst | Michael Robinson
Robinson is the second former NFL player who adds analysis and expertise to the show.
The former fullback won the 2013 season Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks and has grown popular across the NFL Network platform by appearing on various other programs, including “Good Morning Football.”
Insider | Mike Garafolo
Garafolo serves as the program’s insider. He provides injury updates, lineup changes, and anything contract-related involving a league star.
Garafolo previously covered the New York Giants for USA Today and the league with Fox Sports 1 prior to joining NFL Network in 2016.
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