Tom Brady’s $375M Fox Deal Raises Eyebrows in NFL Broadcasting

NEW YORK — NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed that Tom Brady has been fully cooperative in balancing his dual roles as Fox Sports‘ lead NFL game analyst and a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. “Tom has been incredibly cooperative. He calls frequently about it and says, ‘Am I doing OK?'” Goodell said during a press conference on February 3, 2025. “He separates the two roles and doesn’t put the league or anyone in a position of conflict.”

Brady’s unique situation has drawn attention due to the special rules and scrutiny surrounding his dual responsibilities. Unlike other team owners or commentators, Brady frequently checks in with the league to ensure compliance with its tampering policies. “Everybody in the National Football League, owners and personnel, is still subject to tampering rules,” Goodell emphasized. “Everyone is responsible for their conduct and held accountable.”

The seven-time Super Bowl champion signed a groundbreaking 10-year, $375 million deal with Fox Sports in May 2022, making him the highest-paid sports broadcaster in history. The contract includes stock options, potentially increasing its total value beyond the initial figure. Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch described Brady as not just an analyst but also an ambassador for the network, particularly in client and promotional initiatives.

Brady’s deal reflects a broader trend in sports broadcasting, where networks are willing to pay top dollar for marquee names. In 2022, ESPN lured Joe Buck and Troy Aikman from Fox with a combined $165 million contract, while Amazon Prime Video signed Al Michaels to a lucrative deal. Fox’s decision to pursue Brady, despite his lack of prior broadcasting experience, underscores the value of his star power. “We felt like to not ask the question, to not see if you can bring Tom Brady into your network and your brand, would’ve been us not doing our jobs properly,” said Brad Zager, Fox Sports’ president of production and operations.

Brady’s role extends beyond the broadcast booth. He has participated in promotional spots for Fox’s coverage of college football, IndyCar, and the United Football League. His involvement has also attracted new sponsors, including a multimillion-dollar deal with Duracell. “The credibility that Tom brings is unmatched,” Zager added. “He’s about the substance and the sizzle, which is Fox’s way.”

Despite the high expectations, Brady has reportedly been a team player, embracing his new role with professionalism. His transition to broadcasting follows a path taken by other legendary quarterbacks, including Joe Montana and Dan Marino. However, Brady’s deal sets a new benchmark, reflecting the evolving economics of sports media.

As the NFL continues to dominate television ratings, networks are investing heavily in talent to maintain their competitive edge. Brady’s $375 million contract is a testament to the league’s enduring appeal and the premium placed on star power in the broadcasting world.