Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has indicated he would consider a post-NFL career in broadcasting. Allen, 30, told CNBC that while he finds the idea appealing, he would be hesitant to accept a role that requires making overly negative comments about players, drawing from his own experiences as a target of criticism.
"I do think it would be cool if you can keep it from a strictly broadcasting angle," Allen said. "When players go from players to journalists and say certain things that they hated people saying about them, I think that’s where it gets a little murky for me."
He added that he is not yet certain about pursuing such a path, stating, "But I do think that it would be something I would entertain. I can’t say for sure ‘yes’ or for sure ‘no’ right now, because I do go back and forth on it. But yeah, I’d have to put some more thought into it."
Allen's contemplation aligns with a growing trend of former quarterbacks transitioning into broadcasting. This career shift offers a lucrative post-retirement option, leveraging their firsthand knowledge of the game. Notable examples include Tom Brady, who signed a substantial contract with Fox Sports, and Peyton and Eli Manning, who host an alternative broadcast known as "ManningCast."
Other former players who have moved into broadcasting include Dan Marino, Boomer Esiason, Terry Bradshaw, and Robert Griffin, who have joined studio shows to offer pre- and post-game commentary. Michael Strahan, a Hall of Famer, has transitioned into broadcast journalism, co-hosting ABC's "Good Morning America" and appearing on "Fox NFL Sunday." Nate Burleson, a former NFL wide receiver, is a co-host on "CBS Mornings."
However, the challenge of balancing constructive commentary with avoiding overly harsh criticism of players is a recognized hurdle. Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana notably quit a brief stint on NBC's pregame show in 1995 due to frustration with player attacks, feeling it was unfair to those still playing.