There has been an increase in in-uniform interviews from NFL players this season, and it’s not by accident. In May, the NFL broadcasting department sent a memo to various league officials outlining access changes for the league’s television partners. The goal is to enhance the game content for viewers. Some key additions include in-game coach interviews, pregame player interviews, network pregame locker room coverage, preseason player interviews, and coaches’ booth network cameras.
For example, during the opening-week broadcast between the Cincinnati Bengals and New England Patriots, CBS sideline reporter Evan Washburn interviewed Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow right before kickoff. This is part of the new rule where home clubs must make high-profile players available for pre-kick interviews in full uniform.
The new access policy also includes requiring clubs to make the head coach or coordinators available for in-game, on-camera interviews. Time slots are agreed upon between the club and the televising network prior to game day.
NBC’s “Sunday Night Football” has taken advantage of the new access initiatives by interviewing players and coaches before games and during halftime. This additional access provides a unique perspective and enhances the viewer experience.
The new access deal also includes recording and sharing pregame locker room footage with the televising network. While there may be complaints about in-game interviews, networks believe there is value in showcasing unique access to the main people competing in the event.
Overall, the goal is to provide viewers with fresh information directly from those impacting the game, whether it’s coaches or players. Sometimes these interviews offer valuable insights, while other times body language and non-verbal cues can add to the story of the game.
(Photo of Amazon “Thursday Night Football” sideline reporter Kaylee Hartung interviewing Buffalo Bills cornerback Ja’Marcus Ingram and running back James Cook after a game last week: Cooper Neill / Getty Images)