In a move that has stunned both fans and analysts, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has formally submitted a request to the NFL front office urging the league to ban legendary quarterback Tom Brady from participating in game analysis for future NFL broadcasts. The reason? Brady’s recent critical remarks about NFL officiating during last week’s Chiefs-Eagles matchup.
According to multiple sources close to the team, Hurts believes that Brady’s comments were not only “irresponsible and damaging,” but that they have also directly impacted the morale and trust of Eagles players toward NFL referees. The 25-year-old quarterback is also reportedly calling for FOX Sports, where Brady is expected to become a lead NFL analyst, to “reconsider his role” in their broadcast team.
Brady’s Controversial Commentary
During the highly anticipated Monday Night Football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, Tom Brady — who was appearing as a guest analyst during halftime coverage — made pointed criticisms about the referees, specifically regarding what he called “blown calls” and “soft penalties” that favored the Eagles.
“This isn’t the football I played,” Brady said. “Some of these calls tonight are embarrassing. You’ve got to let the guys play — especially in games of this magnitude.”
While fans and pundits across social media had mixed reactions, the comments clearly struck a nerve within the Eagles locker room.
Jalen Hurts: “It Crossed a Line”
In a post-game interview that has since gone viral, Hurts addressed the remarks without naming Brady directly, stating:
“When people who used to play the game try to undermine the integrity of the officials — especially during our games — it’s not just commentary. It becomes a distraction, and it’s demoralizing to the players who are out there giving it everything.”
But behind the scenes, sources confirm that Hurts took his frustration further, submitting a formal complaint to the NFL’s executive leadership. The request reportedly outlines Brady’s conflict of interest as a former player turned commentator, and accuses him of using his platform to “sway public opinion against the officials” and indirectly question the legitimacy of the Eagles’ performance.
Fallout Within the League
The NFL has not issued a public statement yet, but league insiders confirm that the issue is being “taken seriously.”
One senior official, speaking under anonymity, said:
“Tom Brady is a Hall of Famer and future face of NFL broadcasting, but no one is above the code of conduct we expect from our analysts. If a player like Jalen Hurts voices concern, we’re obligated to listen.”
At FOX Sports, Brady’s transition into a full-time analyst role is already underway, with a reported $375 million deal over 10 years. Executives at the network have declined to comment publicly on the situation, though insiders say there is “no current plan” to remove Brady from future coverage.
Public Reaction: Divided and Loud
As expected, reactions across sports media and fanbases have been swift and polarized.
Some fans support Hurts’ position, arguing that former players should respect the neutrality of the broadcast booth, especially when officiating remains a controversial and delicate topic.
Others believe Hurts is overreacting, viewing Brady’s comments as simply part of the new reality where retired legends speak freely — especially when calling out inconsistencies in the league.
Twitter/X exploded with trending hashtags like #BradyBan, #ProtectTheShield, and #LetBradySpeak, showing the depth of division this issue has sparked.
What’s Next?
The NFL’s disciplinary and media conduct committees are expected to review the complaint in the coming days. While a ban of Brady is considered unlikely, possible outcomes could include:
A private warning or advisory issued to Brady regarding future commentary
A code of conduct adjustment for former players in media roles
Internal meetings between FOX and NFL representatives to ensure message alignment
For now, Brady remains set to appear on FOX’s next Sunday broadcast. Whether he’ll address the controversy — or double down — remains to be seen.
Final Thoughts
This developing story highlights the evolving tensions between active players, referees, and the growing influence of retired legends in broadcast roles. With Jalen Hurts stepping into the spotlight not just as a quarterback, but as a defender of league integrity, the NFL is being forced to confront an uncomfortable question:
When does free commentary become too influential?
One thing is clear: The gridiron drama no longer ends when the final whistle blows.
