Scott Hanson’s Return Keeps NFL RedZone Tradition Alive
In a highly publicized and much-awaited statement, Scott Hanson announced he would return to host NFL RedZone for the 2025 season. The ubiquitous broadcaster, whose loud-mouthed personality and catchphrase “Seven hours of commercial-free football,” are so iconic, announced on social media. This put an end to months of rumors concerning his future.
With just 100 days to go before RedZone’s Week 1 game on September 7, viewers can finally breathe easier knowing the voice and visage of the network will once more guide them through the chaos and excitement of Sunday football.
Hanson’s Return Silences Offseason Speculation
Hanson’s future with NFL Media had been uncertain since his contract lapsed after the 2024 season. In early 2025, there were hints that negotiations between Hanson and NFL Network had come to an impasse, and some sources had reported that the host was seeking other options, even for a full-time position with NBC Sports. This created many questions regarding whether the 2024 season marked the end of an era for NFL RedZone.
But Hanson finally spoke out on May 30 in a tweet on X (formerly Twitter): “100 days from now = NFL RedZone.” Hanson put to rest rumors that the show needed a new face in 2025. The 53-year-old has been hosting all versions of RedZone since its inception in 2009, and his return guarantees consistency for what has become an NFL media stalwart.
Hanson’s fame kept growing a year ago, thanks to his Olympic assignment for Peacock’s “Gold Zone,” which was a pioneering live stream offering whip-around action of the most significant Olympic coverage. His stint there created buzz for NBCUniversal, and even though he pledged to work for future Olympics, including the 2026 Winter Olympics, his passion is NFL Sundays. RedZone without Hanson is Sunday football without touchdowns—a scenario that would be unimaginable to most NFL aficionados.
RedZone’s Influence On Sports Television and Viewers
Since its introduction in 2009, RedZone has revolutionized the experience of watching football. The staccato presentation of the show—alternating among live games to emphasize the key plays, scoring drives, and red zone chances—speaks to the new sports fan’s love of instant gratification and constant updates. Hanson’s effortless transitions among games and factoid-filled asides have made him a must-have member of the broadcast team. He is no host; he is the maestro of a seven-hour football orchestra.
RedZone’s influence extends far beyond the pleased fan base. It has revolutionized how networks cover live sports. Programs like NBA CrunchTime, MLB Big Inning, and even Olympic Gold Zone owe a debt to the RedZone blueprint. Amidst cord-cutting and streaming-on-demand, RedZone remains must-watch TV. It is a live, communal experience that few sports broadcasts can rival.
Apart from the technical broadcast, Hanson’s high-energy demeanor plays a major role in RedZone’s success. His vigor, stamina, and love for the game make people sit through every single week. Even when NFL Media briefly inserted commercials in 2024—for which Hanson was forced to apologize—viewers remained loyal to him due to the rapport and faith he has built over nearly two decades.
Final Thoughts
Scott Hanson’s return to NFL RedZone isn’t only positive news—it’s crucial to the soul of Sunday football. His voice establishes the tone, energy, and reliability of the show. As RedZone enters its 17th season, it does so with its fanbase at an all-time high. Hanson remains the perfect voice to guide fans through the NFL’s weekly narratives and flashiest moments. Hanson has engraved himself in NFL history as one of the most iconic voices in all of broadcasting.
For millions of people, Sundays won’t officially be underway until Hanson declares, “Seven Hours of Commercial-Free Football… Starts…Now!”
