Tom Brady Faces Strict Restrictions in Dual Role as Fox Broadcaster and Potential Las Vegas Raiders Owner

Tom Brady's potential venture into NFL ownership as a limited partner with the Las Vegas Raiders is being met with stringent restrictions that could significantly impact his role as a Fox broadcaster. According to a presentation given to team owners at Tuesday's NFL meetings in Minneapolis, Brady would be subject to unique and severe limitations if his ownership bid is approved.

Among the most notable restrictions, Brady would be barred from entering other teams' facilities, attending practices, and participating in broadcast production meetings, either in person or virtually. These production meetings, where broadcasters typically gain critical insights from head coaches and key players, are vital for the quality of game telecasts. The absence of this access could pose a significant challenge for Brady as he transitions into his broadcasting career.

These rules, presented under the slide titled "Brady -- Broadcast Restrictions," are specific to the seven-time Super Bowl champion and would not apply to other Fox broadcasting crew members. The NFL has reportedly fielded several questions from owners about potential conflicts of interest regarding Brady's dual role.

In addition to the access limitations, Brady would also be subject to several other league policies if he becomes a limited partner with the Raiders:

• Public Criticism: Brady would be prohibited from publicly criticizing game officials or other clubs. While he could theoretically express disagreement with a call during a broadcast, he could face fines or suspension if his comments are deemed too harsh.
• Gambling Policy: Brady would be required to adhere to the league's gambling policy, which restricts any involvement in sports betting.
• Anti-Tampering Rules: His interactions with members of other clubs would be limited to strictly social communication, in accordance with the NFL's anti-tampering policies.

The NFL pointed to a precedent for these types of restrictions. In 2017, Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen, who was still an active player at the time, called games for Fox, including one against the Minnesota Vikings, who were an upcoming opponent for the Panthers. Olsen was not given the usual broadcast crew access for that game. Olsen has since retired and is a member of Fox's top broadcast team, which Brady is slated to join in 2024.

Brady's potential ownership stake in the Raiders has yet to be finalized, and these restrictions could further complicate the process. The deal, first reported by ESPN over a year ago, remains under review by the NFL's finance committee. Questions have arisen regarding the selling price of Brady's proposed 10% stake and concerns about the conflicts of interest given his role as a color analyst on Fox's top television team.

If the finance committee clears Brady's bid, it would still require approval from at least 24 of the 32 NFL owners.

Brady, who retired from the NFL in 2023, signed a 10-year, $375 million contract to join Fox as an analyst, with his start date set for the 2024 season.