FOX Rejects Netflix’s Request for Tom Brady to Announce Christmas Day Games; Targeting Greg Olsen, Noah Eagle, and More

To cover the game, Netflix will use CBS as its third-party production company and has four targets in mind after their top duo was denied. Ryan Glasspiegel of the New York Post reports that FOX refused to allow Tom Brady and play-by-play commentator Kevin Burkhardt to call Netflix’s afternoon Christmas game. As a result, the streaming service is pivoting, aiming to bring in last season’s top FOX commentator, former All-Pro tight end Greg Olsen, along with CBS’s Ian Eagle and Nate Burleson.

Olsen, who has been moved to FOX’s second team, has earned a reputation as one of the best in-game analysts NFL fans have seen in a long time. When Tom Brady signed a ten-year, $375 million contract with FOX, many wondered what would happen to Olsen. He remained with FOX, and now, with Brady receiving mixed reviews, giving Olsen this Christmas opportunity could help relieve some of the pressure on FOX for its handling of Olsen.

However, the Christmas commentary team has not yet been finalized. Olsen and Eagle could make a great pairing—Olsen’s stoicism complements Eagle’s balanced mix of excitement and education. Though Brady won’t be present, Olsen is a strong replacement for the streaming service.