Scott Hanson had a heartfelt message for NFL fans before the first football Sunday of the season.
The “NFL RedZone” host addressed the controversy surrounding the program since it was revealed that it will air commercials this year.
“I’m the host of the show, and I dedicate myself fully to being the best host I can be for you,” Hanson expressed in a video he shared on X. “My goal is to make it fun, energetic, passionate, informative, and entertaining, so you can enjoy your football Sundays to the fullest. Regarding the business aspect, I have no authority or involvement in that area.
“However, I assure you, there’s no one more eager to present football to you than I am. If someone claims otherwise, I’d be interested in meeting them because we’d definitely share a common interest.”
“NFL RedZone” plans to feature four 15-second commercials in a split-screen format during non-critical moments — ensuring no ads run during the “witching hour,” which is the crucial time in games.
Despite it being a minor change, this decision sparked discontent among viewers as the show had been famously advertised as “seven hours of commercial-free football.”
Initially, fans pointed fingers at ESPN and its parent company Disney, which struck a deal with the NFL to obtain “RedZone” and NFL Network in return for 10 percent equity in ESPN.
But it was not ESPN’s decision — it was the NFL’s, as the deal won’t take effect until 2026.
“Regarding the unease, frustration, and anger over recent developments, I understand,” Hanson stated. “I would simply invite you to join us on Sunday and assess for yourself whether we’ve maintained our status. We’ve been regarded as the greatest football show on TV. I hope you’ll tune in and make your own judgment.”
“The crew and I are gonna focus on the football and the incredible men who play it and coach it and thrill us, entertain us, inspire us, enrich our sporting lives for 18 straight Sundays.”
