The National Football League has, to a large extent, transitioned from a pure sports entity into a media conglomerate. A recent decision about the "Around the NFL" podcast further underscores these changes. This once buzz-generating sports channel has been abruptly canceled, a move perplexingly out of sync with its burgeoning media empire status. The lack of clear communication has further raised eyebrows with many wondering the rationale behind the move.

The Abrupt End of the Around the NFL Podcast

The "Around the NFL" podcast, a beloved favorite among sports aficionados, was abruptly suspended in May without prior notice. Numerous inquiries from readers and live viewers about the sudden hiatus met with silence from the NFL Media's spokesperson, adding a shroud of mystery to the whole situation. The saga continued until the League, in a somewhat unorthodox fashion, declared the termination of the podcast. Instead of a well-thought-out press release, fans were confronted with the stark reality of a sudden termination.

Hosts Redeployment and Public Reactions

Among the three popular hosts of the podcast, Gregg Rosenthal was reassigned to another show, while Dan Hanzus and Marc Sessler parted ways with NFL Media. The abrupt cessation of the show was not well taken by the fanbase, mainly due to the lack of communication, leaving many in confusion. Traditionally, shows often have a fitting farewell episode, announcing the end of an era. However, with "Around the NFL", it was abruptly halted leaving dedicated followers of the podcast grappling with the sudden absence of two long-standing presenters.

The NFL Media's Questionable Moves

Although this move seems out of left field, it is consistent with other non-people-friendly decisions the NFL has made in the past year, which has seen many enduring weeks of uncertainty and silence. There are criticisms about the timing of the announcement, stating it was purposely leaked during a slow news weekend to a specific outlet for amplification. This has led observers to question the NFL's capacity in managing its media operations. Unless they are intent on running this sector into the ground, fans suggest the NFL may need to reassess their public relations strategy.

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