NFL Fans React to Looming Al Michaels-Amazon Decision

By Jordan SiglerShareNewsweek is a Trust Project member

Amazon has a big decision coming on the future of legendary NFL broadcaster Al Michaels for 2026.

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Michaels, 81, has been calling league games since 1975. Following his stint with "Sunday Night Football" on NBC, which ended after the 2021 season, he started calling games on Amazon Prime for "Thursday Night Football" beginning in 2022.

During an interview with Jimmy Traina of SI Media, Michaels claimed that he's still having fun calling NFL games on Thursday nights and wants to return.

Al Michaels looks on from the sideline prior to an NFL football game

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However, Michaels suggested that his future with Amazon is unclear for 2026.

"It’s a two-way street here," Michaels said. "They (Amazon) could tell me, ‘Hey, we gotta move on. It’s time to make a transition.’ All that. It could happen. But as of the moment, as we sit here on this mid-November afternoon, I feel really good. Still love what I do. And again, work with a tremendous crew.

"So, yeah, I think at this moment in time, I’d like to continue, yes.”

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NFL fans had strong opinions about Michaels' future with Amazon.

Some want the broadcasting icon to return. Others feel he's losing his ability to make league games as exciting as he did when he was calling "Sunday Night Football" and "Monday Night Football."

"Tough to listen to these days.. Al hang it up man be remembered as a legend not a bad commentator," wrote a fan.

"Al is the best ever but it’s time," suggested a poster who thinks Michaels should retire.

"Regrettably, he’s lost his fast ball," posted another.

"He's fine. People are holding him to a higher standard b/c he isn't the GOAT at this point. He should decide when it ends," argued a fan.

"Would actually love Noah Eagle, he did great with the men’s Olympic basketball run. Love Al but he’s terrible now," posted another.

"Al is The Best !!!!" suggested a poster.

It would be interesting to see who Amazon would promote to take over Michaels. While Michaels is showing signs of slowing down, he still has charm and wit.

Michaels won't be easy to replace.

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