NFL Network is starting to look less like a steady media giant and more like a talent revolving door. In just a matter of days, yet another long-time face has joined the list of question marks surrounding the future of the network. First came the quiet exits. Then came the wave of layoffs in 2024. And now, it’s Scott Hanson—Mr. RedZone himself—who finds his status suddenly up in the air.
The news hits harder because Hanson isn’t just another analyst or rotating desk voice. He’s been the anchor for every whip-around touchdown moment for nearly two decades. As fans speculate about what’s really going on behind the scenes, the broader picture is starting to take shape: ESPN’s potential $2 billion acquisition of NFL Media could be reshuffling the deck fast. And longtime figures like Peter Schrager, who just exited NFL Network a few days ago to refocus on FOX and ESPN gigs, might be the first few dominos to fall.
In an interaction captured on X by Yahoo Sports, a reporter asked Hanson whether he was officially returning to RedZone this season. His answer didn’t exactly calm nerves: “There have been reports… some inaccurate, some semi-accurate out there. All I can share with you is negotiations are ongoing. The NFL has told me they want me back. I certainly want to be back. We have not come to an agreement yet—and I’m very hopeful.” It’s the kind of cautious optimism that doesn’t scream confidence. And coming from the voice of RedZone, it’s got viewers wondering—are we about to see a changing of the guard?
“Negotiations are ongoing”
Is “free agent” Scott Hanson done with NFL RedZone? pic.twitter.com/75ldiU2bas
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 24, 2025
Scott Hanson may not have used the words “free agent” himself, but that’s exactly what his current status feels like and his status isn’t just a one-off case—it’s starting to feel like part of a trend. With ESPN reportedly eyeing a multi-billion-dollar stake in NFL Media, each quiet departure starts to look less like coincidence and more like a calculated shift. Viewers may not see the boardroom talks happening behind the scenes, but they’re starting to feel the ripple effects on screen. Which brings us to the real question—what happens if Scott Hanson is the next to go?
Is Scott Hanson the next domino in NFL network’s overhaul?
Hanson’s limbo comes at a moment of massive industry turbulence. ESPN’s reported $2 billion move, per NBC Sports, to acquire a majority stake in NFL Media isn’t just a flashy headline—it could reshape the entire landscape. If finalized, it would give ESPN control over assets like NFL Network and NFL.com. That kind of power shift could explain why so many long timers, from Peter Schrager to other on-air talent, are suddenly becoming “available.” Layoffs, restructuring, or simply realignment under a new parent company—whatever the case, the dominoes are already falling.
Peter Schrager’s exit added more fuel to the fire. The Good Morning Football host—another staple of the network—in an interview on The Pat McAfee Show, discussed his transition from NFL Network to ESPN, highlighting the evolving dynamics within NFL media. He expressed enthusiasm about contributing to ESPN’s coverage of the upcoming NFL Draft, stating, “I’m thrilled to be part of ESPN’s team during such a pivotal time for NFL coverage.”
Whether by design or not, it seemed like a signal that NFL Network is shedding key personalities—maybe to prepare for ESPN’s influence, or maybe to trim down before a sale. So now, all eyes are on Hanson. With over 20 years under the NFL umbrella, he’s more than just a host—he’s a part of the league’s Sunday DNA. But if deals aren’t getting done and on-air veterans keep walking, it raises a major question: does he still have a spot in the next version of the NFL’s media arm?
The 2025 season is fast approaching, and fans are eager for answers. But with ESPN circling and the NFL’s media plans evolving behind closed doors, there’s more uncertainty than ever. Will Hanson return as the trusted voice of RedZone Sundays? Or will this era end just as quietly as others have in recent months?
The post More Exits Mount at NFL Network as 2-Decade Host Becomes ‘Free Agent’ Amid ESPN’s $2B Move appeared first on EssentiallySports.