Former FOX Sports pundit Skip Bayless has been less than impressed with Tom Brady’s early foray into color commentary, even going so far as to give the NFL legend a biting new nickname. Bayless was tuning into Brady’s commentary for the San Francisco 49ers versus Arizona Cardinals game, broadcasted on FOX, when he expressed his dissatisfaction with the seven-time Super Bowl champion’s performance behind the mic.
“I’ve been listening to 49ers-Cardinals commentary by Capt. Obvious … who just talks and talks more and more obvious,” Bayless said, taking a jab at Brady’s tendency to state what he believes to be self-evident observations during the game. The nickname, “Captain Obvious,” captures Bayless’ view that Brady’s insights in the broadcast booth have been underwhelming.
Brady is currently in his debut season as a color commentator for FOX, working alongside play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt as part of the network’s No. 1 commentary duo.
While there was significant anticipation for his post-retirement role, the transition has not been without its challenges. Brady’s first week on the job was met with criticism, with some calling his performance lackluster and others pointing to growing pains as he adjusts to his new role.
Bayless, never one to shy away from harsh critiques, has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with Brady’s commentary more than once. In fact, this isn’t the first time the former Undisputed host has shared his frustration with Brady’s performance. Just last month, Bayless offered another scathing assessment of the quarterback-turned-analyst.
“I listened to Tom Brady for a whole game today, then Tony Romo for a whole game,” Bayless posted on X (formerly Twitter) during an NFL Sunday. Brady was calling the Dallas Cowboys’ game against the New Orleans Saints, while Romo, a former Cowboys quarterback who now serves as CBS Sports’ top color commentator, called the Kansas City Chiefs-Cincinnati Bengals matchup.
In his comparison, Bayless was quick to point out Romo’s superior analysis. “Romo gives you far more X&O insight and enlightenment. Some ex-QBs can see it and say it. Some can’t. Maybe Brady played more with indescribable feel and instinct. But … he’s just a booth rookie.”
Bayless’ critiques highlight the differences between Romo, who has been praised for his ability to predict plays and break down the game with precision, and Brady, who is still finding his rhythm as a commentator. However, Brady is still new to the role, and while some fans have echoed Bayless’ sentiments, others believe the former Patriots and Buccaneers star just needs more time to settle in.
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Brady was signed to a lucrative ten-year, $375 million deal with FOX, and while the former quarterback is still in the early stages of his broadcasting career, the network is banking on his eventual success in the booth. Each week has shown improvement as Brady becomes more comfortable behind the mic, but the criticisms from pundits like Bayless suggest that the transition from player to commentator may not be as smooth as many had hoped.
As for Bayless, the outspoken commentator has been a free agent since leaving his long-time show Undisputed earlier this summer. In August, Bayless announced his departure from FS1 on social media, writing, “Today was my last show on Undisputed. I’m leaving FS1. I’ve been planning to pursue other opportunities for several months.”
Bayless’ next move remains unclear, though there are rumors circulating that he may be working on a new show with rapper Lil Wayne, who is a close friend of the sports pundit. Bayless has yet to reveal any concrete plans, but his criticisms of Brady suggest that he’s still paying close attention to the NFL from the sidelines.
As Brady continues to adjust to life in the broadcast booth, it remains to be seen whether he’ll win over critics like Bayless or cement his place as a top commentator. For now, the former quarterback seems focused on improving each week, despite the noise from his detractors.
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