Tom Brady had no hard feelings toward Scott Hanson after receiving feedback on his highly anticipated debut as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports on Sunday. Following Hanson’s public apology for what he described as “unfair” criticism, Brady responded with grace, embracing the light-hearted nature of the comment.
The situation unfolded after Hanson, the host of NFL RedZone, commented on Brady’s demeanor in the broadcast booth during the Week 1 matchup between the Cleveland Browns and the Dallas Cowboys. While analyzing a potential 71-yard field goal attempt by the Cowboys, Brady’s subdued reaction caught Hanson’s attention, prompting him to remark, “Oh come on, Brady’s gotta get more excited than that in the booth.”
Hanson, realizing that his comments might have been misinterpreted, quickly issued an apology on social media. “This was unfair & inconsiderate by me. Yes, I was saying it tongue in cheek – but I didn’t calculate how it may come across. @TomBrady, I apologize,” Hanson wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I promise I am rooting you on in this new venture!”
Brady responded graciously on Monday night, taking the critique in stride. He posted on X, writing, “This rookie appreciates you @scotthanson! No apology necessary my man, life is too short to not have fun!” Brady’s reply signaled his easygoing attitude toward his new role and hinted that he wasn’t taking the feedback too seriously.
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During his debut broadcast, Brady partnered with Fox’s lead play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt to cover the Cowboys’ 33-17 victory over the Browns. The NFL legend’s performance was under the microscope, with fans and pundits eager to dissect every moment of his transition from the field to the booth. While some praised his insight into the game, others, like Hanson, felt that Brady could inject a bit more energy into his commentary.
Acknowledging the playful critique, Brady promised to bring a little more enthusiasm next time, adding humor to his response. “We’re officially on 70 yarder watch, and I’m gonna spike my headset when it happens,” he joked in his X post, indicating that he was ready to turn up the excitement if the opportunity presented itself.
Brady’s smooth transition into broadcasting comes after signing a monumental 10-year, $375 million contract with Fox Sports in May 2022, securing his place as the network’s lead NFL game analyst. The deal was finalized just before Brady’s final season as a player, and after 23 illustrious years in the league with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he officially retired in February 2023.
While his Week 1 debut may not have been the fireworks display some expected, Brady’s humility and lighthearted approach show he’s ready to grow into his new role. On Monday, Brady also shared an Instagram Story, letting fans know he’s “back to work” preparing for his Week 2 broadcast, which will feature the Dallas Cowboys’ home opener against the New Orleans Saints in Arlington.
As Brady settles into his new career, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how he evolves in the booth.
With his competitive nature and willingness to take feedback, it’s likely we’ll see a more dynamic version of the seven-time Super Bowl champion in broadcasts to come.
