NFL, ESPN make decision on Scott Hanson’s NFL RedZone future
· Yahoo Sports
The NFL stands as the king of American sports. It has transformed its product into more than just a game — it is a worldwide spectacle.
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One of the league’s strongest offerings is NFL RedZone. The NFL launched the channel in 2009 as part of its Sunday Ticket package. The concept was simple: show every touchdown and every red zone drive by cutting live between games.
Since then, NFL RedZone has become a highly sought-after streaming product, often included in sports add-on packages. Consumers can access it through cable or streaming services on virtually any platform.
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Other sports leagues have tried to replicate its success, but none have matched it.
Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; NFL Network broadcasters Daniel Jeremiah (left) and Rich Eisen (right) interview Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Scott Hanson serves as the face of NFL RedZone. He has become an icon and coined the phrase “seven hours of commercial-free football.”
The NFL and ESPN recently reached an agreement that gives ESPN rights to NFL Network. Following the deal, both organizations reassigned or released several on-air personalities.
The move raised questions about whether Hanson would remain the host of NFL RedZone, despite his confidence at the end of 2025. Recent reports now indicate that he will stay with the NFL and continue hosting NFL RedZone.
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ESPN chose not to bring Hanson over, as the NFL will retain control of NFL RedZone. Both sides preferred to keep him in his iconic role.
Scott Hanson, NFL RedZone host | Jason Kempin/Getty ImagesBroadcasting companies often make decisions that seem obviously wrong in hindsight. ESPN spent nearly a decade trying to replace Mike Tirico after allowing him to leave for NBC.
The NFL has also made its share of missteps. The league spent years searching for the right Thursday Night Football broadcast team before Amazon stepped in and took over.
This time, however, the NFL made the right call by ensuring Hanson remains the voice of NFL RedZone. It may no longer be completely commercial-free, but Hanson will still deliver “seven hours of football.”