The NFL is the most popular sports league in the United States, and its commentators are some of the highest paid in the world. In 2023, the top 20 highest paid NFL commentators are:
Top 20 highest paid NFL commentator 2023
20. Samantha Ponder
Samantha Ponder is an American sports reporter and host working at ESPN. She serves as the host of “Sunday NFL Countdown,” a pregame show dedicated to the latest news, analysis, and predictions of NFL games.
Ponder’s journey with ESPN began in 2011 as a sideline reporter for college football and basketball games. She also hosted “College GameDay” on ESPN and ESPNU and made appearances on various ESPN shows and platforms.
As of 2021, Samantha Ponder’s reported annual salary at ESPN stands at $4.5 million. In 2019, she signed a contract extension that increased her yearly earnings from $3 million to $4.5 million. Additionally, some sources estimate her net worth at $12.2 million.
Samantha Ponder’s income and net worth highlight her standing in the sports media industry, bolstered by her versatility and strong work ethic. She covers a range of sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while frequently contributing to other ESPN programs.
Ponder is known for her outspoken and sometimes controversial opinions, as well as her distinctive catchphrases and nicknames.
19. Tony Kornheiser
Tony Kornheiser, an American television sports talk show host, former sportswriter, and columnist, is best recognized for his co-host role on ESPN’s Emmy Award-winning sports debate show, “Pardon the Interruption (PTI),” a position he has held since 2001.
On PTI, he engages in spirited debates with his co-host, Michael Wilbon. Additionally, Kornheiser hosts “The Tony Kornheiser Show,” a radio program and podcast offering interviews, analysis, and commentary on sports and various other topics.
As of 2021, Tony Kornheiser’s reported annual salary at ESPN is $6 million. In 2019, he inked a contract extension with ESPN, increasing his yearly earnings from $4 million to $6 million. Furthermore, his net worth is estimated to be $18 million, according to certain sources.
Tony Kornheiser’s salary and net worth underscore his significance and impact in the sports media industry. He tackles an array of sports topics, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, and maintains a frequent presence on various ESPN programs and platforms. Kornheiser is known for his forthright and, at times, provocative viewpoints, along with his distinct catchphrases and nicknames.
18. Michael Wilbon
Michael Wilbon, an American commentator for ESPN and a former sportswriter and columnist for The Washington Post, serves as an analyst at ESPN and has co-hosted “Pardon the Interruption” on ESPN since 2001.
As of 2021, Michael Wilbon’s salary as a commentator for ESPN is reported to be $6 million annually. In 2019, he entered into a contract extension with ESPN, which raised his yearly income from $4 million to $6 million. Furthermore, he is estimated to have a net worth of $18 million, according to certain sources.
Michael Wilbon’s salary and net worth exemplify his popularity and influence within the sports media industry. He covers a range of sports topics, including the NBA, NFL, boxing, and MMA, and frequently makes appearances on various ESPN shows and platforms. Wilbon is known for his outspoken and, at times, controversial opinions, as well as his signature catchphrases and nicknames.
17. Al Michaels
Al Michaels is an American sportscaster who joined NBC Sports in 2006 after departing from ABC Sports due to the loss of the Monday Night Football broadcasting contract. At NBC Sports, he serves as the lead play-by-play announcer, covering NFL, MLB, golf, and Olympic events.
Over the course of his career, Michaels has called 10 Super Bowls, 8 World Series, 4 Ryder Cups, and 3 Olympic Games for NBC. Additionally, he hosts “The Al Michaels Show,” a sports talk show on NBC Sports Radio.
As of 2021, Al Michaels’s reported annual salary at NBC Sports was $6 million. In 2019, he signed a contract extension with NBC, increasing his yearly earnings from $5 million to $6 million. Additionally, some sources estimate his net worth to be $40 million.
Al Michaels’s salary and net worth highlight his standing and influence within the sports media industry. He provides coverage for a wide range of sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while maintaining a frequent presence on various NBC shows and platforms.
Michaels is renowned for his iconic calls in other sports, such as the “Miracle on Ice” at the 1980 Winter Olympics and his commentary during the earthquake-interrupted Game 3 of the 1989 World Series.
16. Greg Gumbel
Greg Gumbel worked at NBC Sports from 1994 to 1998 before transitioning to CBS Sports due to changes in the NFL and MLB broadcasting contracts. At NBC, he hosted a variety of sports events, including the MLB All-Star Game, the NBA Finals, the Summer Olympics, and the World Figure Skating Championships.
He also served as the studio host for “The NFL on NBC,” where he teamed up with Mike Ditka, Joe Gibbs, and Joe Montana.
As of 1998, Greg Gumbel’s reported annual salary at NBC Sports was $6 million. In 1997, he signed a contract extension with NBC, increasing his yearly earnings from $3 million to $6 million. According to certain reports, his net worth is approximated at $10 million.
Greg Gumbel left NBC Sports in 1998 when CBS regained the rights to broadcast the NFL. He returned to CBS as the lead play-by-play announcer for “The NFL on CBS,” partnering with Phil Simms.
Additionally, he resumed his role as the studio host for CBS’s college basketball coverage, including the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship. Gumbel has continued to work for CBS with various assignments and partners.
15. Colin Cowherd
Colin Cowherd, an American sports journalist, radio and television host, and author, is employed by ESPN and ABC. He fulfills the role of the host on “Get Up!”, a morning show on ESPN covering a range of sports topics and news.
He also hosts “Greeny,” a radio show on ESPN Radio featuring interviews, analysis, and commentary on sports. Furthermore, Cowherd hosts “NBA Countdown,” a pregame show on ESPN previewing NBA games and featuring former players and coaches as analysts.
As of 2021, Colin Cowherd’s reported annual salary at ESPN is $6 million. In 2019, he signed a contract extension with ESPN, increasing his yearly earnings from $5 million to $6.5 million. Additionally, some sources estimate his net worth to be $28 million.
Colin Cowherd’s salary and net worth underscore his significance and impact in the sports media industry. He covers a wide array of sports topics, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while maintaining a frequent presence on various ESPN shows and platforms.
Cowherd is known for his outspoken and, at times, controversial opinions, along with his distinctive catchphrases and nicknames.
14. Michelle Beadle
Michelle Beadle is an American sports reporter and host who is associated with the San Antonio Spurs.
In the past, she co-hosted the ESPN morning sports show “Get Up!” alongside Jalen Rose and Mike Greenberg. She also assumed hosting duties for “SportsNation” on ESPN2 and “Winners Bracket” on ABC, partnering with Marcellus Wiley.
As of 2019, Michelle Beadle’s reported annual salary at ESPN2 was $5 million. In 2019, she signed a contract extension with ESPN, increasing her yearly earnings from $3 million to $5 million. Some sources estimate her net worth at $8 million.
Michelle Beadle’s salary and net worth highlight her standing and influence within the sports media industry. She covers various sports topics, such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while making frequent appearances on other ESPN shows and platforms.
Beadle is known for her outspoken and, at times, controversial opinions, along with her unique catchphrases and nicknames.
13. Chris Berman
Chris Berman is an American sportscaster who has been associated with ESPN since its inception in 1979. He is one of the network’s most tenured and recognizable employees, having hosted, commented, and reported on various sports events, including the NFL, MLB, golf, and the Olympics.
Berman is renowned for his signature delivery of highlights, nicknames, and catchphrases, such as “He could… go… all.. the way” and “Back, back, back, back… gone!”
As of 2021, Chris Berman’s reported annual salary at ESPN is $5 million. In 2019, he signed a contract extension with ESPN, increasing his yearly earnings from $3 million to $5 million. Some sources estimate his net worth at $30 million.
Chris Berman’s salary and net worth emphasize his standing and influence within the sports media industry. He covers a range of sports topics, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while maintaining a frequent presence on various ESPN shows and platforms.
He has received numerous accolades, including 28 Emmy Awards, and has been inducted into various Halls of Fame, including the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame, the Hall of Fame for Cable Television and the Hall of Fame for the National Sports Media Association.
12. Skip Bayless
Skip Bayless is an American sports columnist, commentator, and television personality known for his role as a commentator on the ESPN2 show “First Take” alongside Stephen A. Smith, a program he departed from in June 2016.
Bayless launched his own show, “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed,” with Shannon Sharpe on Fox Sports 1 on September 6, 2016. The show features Bayless and Sharpe engaging in debates on various sports topics and news, moderated by Jenny Taft. It airs on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET.
As of 2021, Skip Bayless’s reported annual salary at Fox Sports is $5 million. In 2019, he signed a contract extension with Fox, increasing his yearly earnings from $4 million to $5 million. Some sources estimate his net worth at $17 million.
Bayless’s salary and net worth underscore his significance and impact in the sports media industry. He covers a range of sports topics, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and boxing, and maintains a frequent presence on other Fox shows and platforms.
Bayless is known for his outspoken and, at times, controversial opinions, along with his unique catchphrases and nicknames.
11. Joe Rogan
Joe Rogan is a podcaster, comedian, actor, and mixed martial arts commentator. He hosts “The Joe Rogan Experience,” a podcast where he discusses a wide range of topics, including current events, comedy, politics, philosophy, science, martial arts, and hobbies, with various guests.
Rogan’s salary as a podcaster is estimated at $5 million per year based on the estimated earnings of his podcast episodes, which can range from $75,000 to $150,000 per episode.
It’s important to note that this figure does not include his other sources of income, such as earnings from stand-up comedy specials, his work as a UFC color commentator, endorsements and sponsorships, and his production deal with Spotify.
In 2020, Rogan signed a multi-year contract with Spotify valued at over $200 million, making him one of the highest-paid podcasters globally.
Consequently, Joe Rogan’s salary as a podcaster represents only a portion of his overall net worth, which is estimated to be over $120 million as of 2021. His annual income from all of his endeavors is reported to be approximately $60-65 million.
10. Mike Golic
Mike Golic is a former NFL player and a current television and radio host. He played as a defensive tackle for the Houston Oilers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Miami Dolphins from 1985 to 1993. In 1995, he joined ESPN as a reporter and analyst for NFL and college football.
Golic is best known for co-hosting the popular ESPN Radio show “Mike & Mike” with Mike Greenberg from 2000 to 2017. He also hosted “Golic and Wingo” with Trey Wingo from 2017 to 2020.
As of 2021, Mike Golic’s reported annual salary at ESPN is $6 million. In 2019, he signed a contract extension with ESPN, increasing his yearly earnings from $5 million to $6 million. Some sources estimate his net worth at $25 million.
Mike Golic’s salary and net worth underscore his significance and impact in the sports media industry. He covers a variety of sports topics, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while making frequent appearances on other ESPN shows and platforms.
Golic is known for his outspoken and, at times, controversial opinions, as well as his unique catchphrases and nicknames.
09. Mike Greenberg
Mike Greenberg is an American sports journalist, radio and television host, and author employed by ESPN and ABC. He assumes the role of host on “Get Up!” – a morning show on ESPN that delves into a wide range of sports topics and news.
He also hosts “Greeny,” a radio show on ESPN Radio featuring interviews, analysis, and commentary on sports. Additionally, he hosts “NBA Countdown,” a pregame show on ESPN that previews NBA games and features former players and coaches as analysts.
As of 2021, Mike Greenberg’s reported annual salary at ESPN is $6.5 million. In 2019, he signed a contract extension with ESPN, increasing his yearly earnings from $5 million to $6.5 million. Some sources estimate his net worth at $28 million.
Mike Greenberg’s salary and net worth emphasize his significance and impact in the sports media industry. He covers a variety of sports topics, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and golf, while making frequent appearances on other ESPN shows and platforms.
Greenberg is known for his outspoken and, at times, controversial opinions, as well as his unique catchphrases and nicknames.
08. Bob Costas
Bob Costas, an American sportscaster, dedicated nearly four decades of his career to NBC Sports, from 1980 to 2019. During his tenure, he showcased his talent as a host, commentator, and reporter across a wide array of sporting events, including the Olympics, NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA Tour, and more.
His exemplary work earned him an impressive collection of 28 Emmy Awards and numerous other prestigious honors.
As of 2018, Bob Costas commanded a substantial annual salary of $7 million while with NBC Sports. Notably, his journey with the network began to flourish even more when he inked a contract extension in 2012, boosting his earnings from $5 million to $7 million per year. Furthermore, some sources estimated his net worth at a significant $50 million.
In 2019, after his long-standing association with NBC Sports, Bob Costas decided to explore new opportunities and interests, including the authorship of a memoir and contributions to the MLB Network and CNN.
He also cited a shift in the network’s focus towards entertainment over journalism as a contributing factor. Nevertheless, he maintains a cordial relationship with NBC and occasionally appears on their shows.
07. Jim Rome
Jim Rome, a prominent sports radio and talk show host, has been a fixture at CBS Sports since 2011. His flagship program, The Jim Rome Show, is syndicated by CBS Sports Radio and simulcast on CBS Sports Network. Additionally, he hosts Jim Rome on Showtime, an interview-based show featured on the premium cable channel.
Jim Rome stands as one of the most handsomely compensated sports broadcasters worldwide, boasting an impressive $30 million annual income from various media roles. His journey at CBS was marked by a significant contract extension in 2019, escalating his earnings from $15 million to a remarkable $30 million per year.
Estimates peg his net worth at a substantial $110 million, underscoring his immense influence and popularity in the sports media industry.
Jim Rome’s versatility and work ethic shine through as he covers an array of sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and boxing, while making frequent appearances on other CBS shows and platforms. He’s renowned for his outspoken and controversial opinions, as well as his memorable catchphrases and nicknames.
06. Stephen A. Smith
Stephen A. Smith, an accomplished American sports journalist, television, and radio host, has been a key figure at ESPN. His role as a commentator on ESPN’s spirited sports debate show, First Take, is particularly noteworthy, where he frequently engages in fiery discussions with co-hosts and guests.
Additionally, he hosts The Stephen A. Smith Show on ESPN Radio and Stephen A’s World on ESPN+.
Smith ranks among the highest-paid personalities within the ESPN network, commanding an annual income of $10 million as of 2021. His financial ascent was fueled by a five-year contract extension in 2019, which upped his salary from $5 million to $8 million per year.
Furthermore, Smith secured a substantial $4 million-per-year production deal with ESPN, pushing his total annual compensation to an impressive $12 million.
Stephen A. Smith’s earnings are a testament to his popularity and impact within the sports media industry, driven by his versatility and unwavering work ethic.
He offers insightful coverage across a spectrum of sports, including the NBA, NFL, boxing, and MMA, and remains a frequent presence on various other ESPN shows and platforms.
His distinctive style is marked by outspoken and controversial viewpoints, as well as his signature catchphrases and nicknames.
05. Michael Strahan
Michael Strahan, a former NFL player and current TV personality, enjoys a dynamic career spanning Fox Sports and ABC, earning him the title of the highest-paid sports commentator globally, with an annual income of $17 million. Here’s a closer look at his multifaceted career:
As a defensive end for the New York Giants from 1993 to 2007, Strahan secured victory in Super Bowl XLII during his final season. Notably, he set an NFL record with 22.5 sacks in a single season, a feat accomplished in 2001.
His exceptional contributions led to his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
Strahan’s journey with Fox Sports commenced in 2008, where he assumed the role of a football analyst on Fox NFL Sunday.
Simultaneously, he hosted The $100,000 Pyramid, a popular game show on ABC, and co-hosted Good Morning America and its spin-off, Strahan, Sara and Keke. For his prior co-hosting role on Live! with Kelly and Michael from 2012 to 2016, he earned two Daytime Emmy Awards.
Beyond the world of sports and broadcasting, Strahan ventured into the fashion industry, launching his own clothing line, Collection by Michael Strahan, featuring suits, shirts, ties, and accessories available at retailers such as JCPenney and Men’s Wearhouse.
He also introduced a men’s skincare line, M by Michael Strahan, in 2019. Strahan’s widespread appeal is further underscored by his endorsements of numerous brands, including Metamucil, Subway, Snickers, Pizza Hut, Dr. Pepper, and Right Guard.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to philanthropy, Strahan is involved in several charitable causes, such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Children At Risk, HomeCorp, the USO, and the Wounded Warrior Project. In a remarkable 2021 feat, he experienced space travel as a guest on Blue Origin’s suborbital flight NS-19, hosted by Jeff Bezos.
04. Jim Nantz
Jim Nantz, a seasoned sportscaster, has been a prominent figure at CBS Sports since 1985. Renowned as the lead play-by-play announcer for CBS Sports, he lends his eloquent voice to cover a broad spectrum of events, including NFL, NCAA basketball, PGA Tour, and the prestigious Masters Tournament.
His illustrious career boasts seven Super Bowl calls, 30 Final Fours, and 34 Masters Tournaments. Beyond broadcasting, he also hosts The Jim Nantz Show, a sports talk program featured on CBS Sports Radio.
Jim Nantz is celebrated for his graceful and sophisticated delivery, characterized by his iconic catchphrase, “Hello, friends,” which has become a hallmark of his broadcasting style.
03. Joe Buck
Joe Buck, a seasoned sportscaster, has been an integral part of Fox Sports since 1994. His journey was significantly influenced by his father, the legendary broadcaster Jack Buck, who served as both a mentor and inspiration. J
oe Buck assumes the role of the lead play-by-play announcer for Fox Sports, covering a wide range of sporting events, including NFL, MLB, and golf. His impressive portfolio includes calls for six Super Bowls, 23 World Series, and 24 MLB All-Star Games. In addition to his play-by-play duties, he hosts “Undeniable with Joe Buck,” a sports interview show featured on Audience Network.
Joe Buck is renowned for his professionalism, adaptability, and humor as a broadcaster, cementing his place as a respected and versatile voice in the world of sports media.
02. Troy Aikman
Troy Aikman, a Hall of Fame quarterback, achieved football greatness as a prominent member of the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 2000. His illustrious career included three Super Bowl championships and the MVP title at Super Bowl XXVII. Presently, he serves as a lead analyst for Fox Sports, lending his insights to NFL game commentary alongside Joe Buck.
Aikman made a seamless transition into broadcasting in 2001 and has also contributed his expertise to ESPN and ABC Sports. He is widely regarded as one of the finest quarterbacks and broadcasters in the history of the sport.
01. Tony Romo
Tony Romo, a former NFL quarterback who represented the Dallas Cowboys from 2003 to 2016, has successfully transitioned into the role of a lead analyst for CBS Sports.
Alongside Jim Nantz, he provides astute commentary for NFL games. Romo’s commentary style is marked by his exceptional ability to predict plays before they unfold, earning him critical acclaim and immense popularity.
His broadcasting skills have not gone unnoticed, resulting in numerous accolades and a lucrative contract extension with CBS in 2020.
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FAQs
Why is Tony Romo the highest paid NFL commentator?
Tony Romo is the highest paid NFL commentator because he is one of the most popular and knowledgeable commentators in the game. He is also known for his ability to predict plays before they happen.
Why did Tom Brady become an NFL commentator?
Tom Brady became an NFL commentator because he wanted to stay involved in the game after he retired from playing. He also wanted to use his platform to help other players and coaches.
What is the difference between play-by-play and color commentary?
Play-by-play commentators describe the action on the field, while color commentators provide analysis and insights.
What are the benefits of having diverse NFL commentators?
Diverse NFL commentators can provide viewers with a variety of perspectives on the game. This can help viewers to better understand the game and its different cultures.
The rise of streaming services and social media could create new opportunities for NFL commentators. However, it could also put downward pressure on salaries as networks have more options for commentators.
How will the increasing diversity of NFL commentators affect NFL commentator salaries?
The increasing diversity of NFL commentators could put downward pressure on salaries as networks have more options for commentators. However, it could also lead to higher salaries as networks compete to hire the best and brightest commentators from all backgrounds.
Conclusion
NFL commentators are some of the highest paid in the world, and for good reason. They provide valuable insights and analysis that help viewers understand and enjoy the game. While the future of NFL commentator salaries is uncertain, it is clear that these professionals are in high demand.
