ESPN reporter Jenna Laine announced Sunday night that she will be stepping away from her NFL beat, specifically covering the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, to focus on ongoing medical issues. Laine shared the news on X, formerly Twitter, stating she has been dealing with "medical stuff" that has left her feeling "knocked down."
"Was inactive today, and will be for a bit. Have had to do some medical stuff," Laine wrote. "Next week is the anniversary of my back surgery and I’m honestly just really tired of feeling knocked down. Didn’t even want to say anything. But that’s where we are. Love y’all 🫶"
Her announcement drew supportive responses from colleagues and fans. Ira Kaufman, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and NFL columnist, expressed concern, noting that "Lot of us concerned about You this past week." Fox 9 anchor Dawn Mitchell also sent well wishes, sharing her own experiences with back injuries and offering support.
Laine, 41, has been with ESPN since 2016, covering the Buccaneers beat and contributing to ESPN Radio and television programs. Earlier in August, she gained attention when a video circulated of Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles inviting a female reporter to lunch. Laine identified herself as the reporter in question and defended Bowles, stating he has "always treated me with the utmost respect" and engages in "playful banter" with beat reporters.
Before joining ESPN, Laine covered the Buccaneers for SportsTalkFlorida.com and hosted a radio show in Tampa. She is a native of St. Petersburg and a graduate of the University of South Florida's school of communications.