Imagine this: Even the most ardent NFL fans can’t overlook Erin Andrews’ powerful presence on the sidelines, microphone in hand, as she dominates the game. But change is in the air. The game-day routine? Shifting. Her career? Potentially on the move. And then there’s something else—something like a revamped on-air look.

When you get a new look, you need that one hype friend to gas you up—especially if you’re Erin Andrews, second-guessing your own choices. Enter Charissa Thompson, doing what besties do best. “Be prepared for how many compliments you’re gonna get… it’s like a whole thing!” she declared on their Calm Down podcast. The look in question? Oversized, square-framed black glasses that practically scream, “I can break down a Cover 2 and correct your grammar.” Charissa was all in on the ‘naughty teacher’ vibe, but Erin’s husband, Jarret Stoll? Not so much. When Charissa asked, “Is Jarret into them?” Erin’s deadpan “No” told us everything we needed to know.

Even though Andrews’ eyeglasses makeover is garnering media attention, her real job decisions are still very much up in the air. Erin is right in the heart of the Wild West, which has become the sports media landscape as a result of the FOX NFL shake-up. Will she be staying? Is she leaving? And where is she going?

Although Erin Andrews has been the face of FOX’s sideline coverage since 2012, she is now technically in the free agency pool alongside well-known players like Charissa Thompson and Dan Orlovsky because her contract is up and there is no indication that it will be renewed. She’s also not exactly sitting around while the media community waits to see what happens next.

For example, Andrews and Thompson recently caused a stir during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ inaugural “She is Football” Weekend, a historic occasion honouring female football players. Erin was there as a force, demonstrating that she was actively influencing the game rather than only reporting on it. This was not just her turning there with a microphone.

Plus, between her Calm Down podcast, her clothing line WEAR, and her high-profile public appearances, it’s clear Andrews isn’t slowing down. Whether she sticks with FOX, jumps to another network, or pivots to something totally different (NFL RedZone with Erin Andrews, anyone?), one thing is for sure: she’s still a major player in the sports media game. And, with all of this, the question now is not whether Erin Andrews will move, but rather where and when. Because the entire sports media system is changing beneath her feet as she keeps her options open.

FOX NFL: A shake-up of Super Bowl-winning proportions

Meanwhile, the playing field is in full swing at FOX. The network has some significant voids to cover, with Jimmy Johnson formally leaving, and Peter Schrager joining ESPN. The burning question, though? Who replaces Schrager on Good Morning Football? Dan Orlovsky’s name keeps coming up when the NFL Network is looking for a new insider, but he has other alternatives, such as moving to FOX. FOX will probably search for a new player, perhaps even a previous player like Shaun O’Hara if he remains at ESPN.

J.J. Watt’s vacant seat on The NFL Today appears to be a non-issue (for the time being) at CBS. They are placing greater trust in Matt Ryan and Nate Burleson, but what if a well-known athlete like Travis Kelce decides to exchange his cleats for a microphone (Kelce + Gronk on FOX?) Overnight, the network environment might change (imagine the mayhem).

Speaking of Kelce, who is extending his contract with the Chiefs for another season, but when he does retire, media executives will be vying for his services like it’s free agency forever. Like they did for Tom Brady, FOX, ESPN, and even Amazon could offer him huge amounts. Additionally, Kelce won’t be hurting for offers because his New Heights podcast is already a $100 million business.

The sports media landscape is shifting like a high-stakes two-minute drill, and Erin Andrews is right in the middle of it. Whether she stays on the FOX sidelines, takes her talents to another network, or charts an entirely new path, one thing is certain—she’s not just a spectator in this game.

Erin isn’t waiting for an opportunity—she’s creating one, thanks to a history based on charisma, integrity, and a career that goes beyond conventional sports reporting. Furthermore, whether Erin Andrews is making a move is not the most important one as the chess pieces continue to move in the dynamic world of NFL broadcasting. It’s the where and the when.

One thing is certain, though: Erin Andrews won’t just be making headlines when she enters her next chapter. She is going to make it.