NFL Sundays might never be the same again. While a new season with the same Sunday games is here, the broadcast coverage might look different for a few fans.
In a previous announcement, NFL RedZone host Scott Hanson revealed that the beloved channel will feature commercials starting in the 2025-26 season. And though it’ll be a new experience, fans haven’t been forthcoming about the change.
What Did NFL RedZone Host Scott Hanson Say About Commercials’ Backlash?
As mentioned, many didn’t welcome the NFL RedZone’s new changes with open arms. There was significant backlash about the same, protesting against the previously ad-free show’s decision. RedZone — which focuses on every big moment of the games being played simultaneously — has been a go-to for die-hard fans; the no commercials rule was a major plus point.
Of course, Hanson saw the directed backlash, choosing to address all his fans about the situation.
Hanson started by thanking everyone who made RedZone their Sunday routine. He promised that their crew is fired up for their 17th season and ready to bring every touchdown to the fans’ homes.
“I’m the host of the show. I put everything I’ve got into trying to be the best host I could possibly be for you,” Hanson said. “I wanna make it fun, energetic, passionate, informative, entertaining. So that you love your football Sundays.”
24 hours until NFL RedZone… pic.twitter.com/pwzfrUCPVW
— Scott Hanson (@ScottHanson) September 6, 2025
“As for the business side of things, I have no control over that. I have no say in the business side of things,” Hanson explained. “I will say, there is no one on the planet who wants to show you more football than I do. And if there is someone, I would love to meet them. Because we’d have something in common.”
However, Hanson chose to clarify how the decision-making works. According to the 54-year-old analyst, he himself has no say in what changes are made.
Additional clarity for those who care:
1. No one told me to post this.
2. The 4 total commercials tomorrow will be :15 seconds and in a double box, in between plays. *none* during the Witching Hour.
3. Adding commercials was not a @Disney @espn decision.
4. Opening…— Scott Hanson (@ScottHanson) September 6, 2025
He addressed fans’ anger and frustration, acknowledging the confusion that was caused.
“I understand. I would simply say, I hope you’ll join us on Sunday and judge for yourself whether or not we’re still what we’ve been, what’s been described as the biggest football show on TV. I hope you join us, and you can make that determination yourself,” he concluded.
Hanson emphasized that the decision to add commercials did not come from Disney and ESPN representatives.
What Changes Will NFL RedZone Make?
After initially breaking the news while on the Pat McAfee Show, Hanson shed light on the upcoming changes in RedZone and how they were brought to be:
- The total commercials will last 60 seconds.
- There will be four ads spanning 15 seconds.
- The changes were not made because ESPN purchased NFL Media (which includes RedZone).
- Hanson will tweak his intro to include commercials.
Give us a preview of what it’s gonna sound like on Sunday @ScottHanson #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/fyRcAnoqlQ
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 3, 2025
Though most fans were against the commercials, some believe that a 60-second commercial will not affect the overall viewing experience. With Sundays being packed for weeks before the NFL playoffs begin, RedZone will certainly continue on as a reliable, go-to channel for many.
