Netflix/NFL
Audio By Carbonatix
Netflix are looking to hire ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes to have a role on its studio show for the streaming service’s upcoming doubleheader of NFL games on Christmas day. This will mark the first time that Netflix has ever broadcast NFL games.
The NFL has lucked out with its Christmas day slate and its games feature a matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Houston Texans versus the Baltimore Ravens.
In addition to Mina Kimes, previous reports indicated that Netflix is targeting Kay Adams to host the studio pre-and-post game show.
“The streaming service juggernaut is targeting ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes for a role in its studio show for the Christmas Day doubleheader, The Post has learned. While a deal hasn’t been finalized, a source said ESPN would give Kimes the network’s blessing if it’s something that she ultimately wants to do.” [via The New York Post]
Reports indicate that Netflix has sought out Tom Brady to be one of the color commentators on Christmas but Fox Sports blocked the request. Unlike Fox, however, ESPN would reportedly allow Kimes to take on the gig if she wanted to.
Netflix has also struck deals with Ian Eagle, Noah Eagle, Greg Olsen, Nate Burleson, and JJ Watt to fill out the broadcasting and studio team.
Kimes, 39 years old, has been with ESPN since 2014, where she began as a print reporter, writing profiles on athletes such as Aaron Rodgers, Antonio Brown, Baker Mayfield, Darrelle Revis, Tyrod Taylor, and Michael and Martellus Bennett, and more.
In recent years, Kimes has become one of ESPN’s most high-profile talents, appearing on shows such as SportsCenter, First Take, NFL Live, Monday Night Countdown, and more. She also hosts her own podcast, The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny, which is also occasionally simulcast on ESPN 2.
Kimes’ value to the Worldwide Leader in Sports is clear based on her contract, as she signed an extension in September 2023 that reportedly pays her over $1.7 million per year.