Fox Sports’ NFL play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt recently shared how Tom Brady’s immense popularity is turning his usual pregame routine into a bit of a logistical challenge. In a candid conversation on the Calm Down with Erin and Charissa podcast, Burkhardt described to hosts Erin Andrews and Charissa Thompson the whirlwind experience of having the legendary quarterback as his new broadcast partner.
“Heading down to the field is now a whole event,” Burkhardt explained. “It’s like a circus just trying to move around. We were in L.A. doing a practice game, and it took us 40 minutes just to get from the booth to the elevator and then down to the corner of the end zone. At one point, I had to stop and take a selfie of Brady with Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs right in the middle of the field. It’s wild.”
Burkhardt noted that this kind of attention is something he’ll need to adapt to, especially as Brady’s presence draws so much interest from players and fans alike. “It’s definitely a learning experience,” he said. “We’re going to have to head down to the field a bit earlier, but the cool thing is, Brady actually enjoys it.”
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This season marks a significant shift for Burkhardt, who previously worked alongside Greg Olsen in the booth. The difference in atmosphere is palpable, with Brady’s star power attracting attention from all directions. But Burkhardt is looking forward to embracing the change. “I think it’s going to be fun on game days, walking around with him. Players want to talk to him, share insights, and give him some information.”
Despite Brady’s status as one of the most recognized figures in sports, Burkhardt has found him to be remarkably down-to-earth in their early interactions. During one of their practice sessions, Burkhardt tested the waters by asking if he could offer feedback on Brady’s broadcasting performance. “Earlier in the year, we were in the middle of a practice, and during a commercial break, I said, ‘Hey TB, I know you don’t know me well yet, but can I tell you if something doesn’t work or could be better?’ And he was all for it. He said, ‘Yes, please tell me. Coach me up.’ That was a pretty cool moment.”
Burkhardt emphasized that Brady’s eagerness to learn and improve has been a highlight of their budding partnership. “He just wants to be great, to keep getting better, and I think that’s been the really fun part.”
As the NFL season unfolds, Burkhardt is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable experience with Brady by his side.
The two are set to bring a fresh dynamic to the broadcast booth, and fans can expect plenty of memorable moments as they navigate the new territory together.
