Why Was NFL Network’s James Palmer Fired? NFL Analyst Breaks Silence

NFL Network is undergoing changes, leading to the departure of several familiar faces including Melissa Stark, Andrew Siciliano, James Palmer, and Will Selva. Palmer, who served as a national reporter and had been part of the network for nearly ten years, expressed gratitude for his time there, highlighting the invaluable relationships and experiences gained. He took to X to reflect on his tenure as a “dream job” and looked forward to future opportunities, albeit with uncertainty about what lies ahead.

“I loved every minute of it. And that’s mostly because of the people that I got to work with and the friendships that will last well beyond any “job”. I’m excited for what’s to come,” wrote Palmer. “Not sure what that is exactly, I’ve learned a lot in the last decade at NFL Network and I’m better for it.”

According to The Athletic, the reason for the reshuffling at NFL Network is that it is merely a part of an annual review, as explained by NFL Network spokesperson Alex Riethmiller. This review assesses the “talent roster for the upcoming 2024 season and beyond”, leading to “renewals, non-renewals, and new additions” based on the network’s “programming needs”. Riethmiller extended appreciation to the departing members for their dedication and contributions to NFL Media, marking a period of transition and adaptation for the network and its viewers.

Owing to this there have been multiple other departures from the organisation as well. So, who retained or lost their jobs as part of the latest changes?

NFL Network downsized across all sectors

Jamie Erdahl confirmed her move to the West Coast with the show Good Morning Football, while her co-hosts Peter Schrager, Kyle Brandt, and Jason McCourty remained silent on their future plans. Melissa Stark, a familiar face during the network’s major event broadcasts, will continue in her role as a sideline reporter for NBC’s Sunday Night Football.

Will Selva, known for his news updates on the program among other contributions, is also out of luck. His contributions extend beyond Good Morning Football. Since joining the network in January 2013, he’s made his mark as an anchor and co-host of El Huddle, a pioneering English-language podcast catering to the Latino fanbase.

That’s not all. Amidst these personal and programming shifts, the NFL is reportedly also considering the sale of NFL Network and other NFL Media assets to ESPN in a strategic equity swap, with decisions expected to unfold in the upcoming months. For now, it’s a wait-and-watch scenario as analysts wait with bated breath as to who could be the next to leave.

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