Terry Bradshaw sent home sick from Fox NFL Sunday, sparked fan concern

Created on:

By: Daniel Harris

Terry Bradshaw, age 77, missed Fox NFL Sunday on November 16, 2025. The legendary sports analyst came to work but took a turn for the worse. his co-hosts quickly sent him home. Fans immediately expressed their concern online about the beloved analyst’s health.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Terry Bradshaw missed Week 11 pregame coverage due to illness.
  • He posted on Instagram: “Just have a cold. All good.”
  • He’s been with Fox NFL Sunday since 199431 years.
  • Curt Menefee, Howie Long, and Michael Strahan anchored the show.
  • Strahan humorously noted: “We sent him home. Let that be known.”

What Happened on Fox NFL Sunday

Bradshaw arrived at the studio feeling under the weather. He decided to power through but his condition worsened. Fox Sports made the call to send him home immediately. The move came before that day’s Week 11 pregame show at noon. Curt Menefee, the show’s host, addressed his absence live on air.

“You may notice there is Howie Long and Michael Strahan, that Terry Bradshaw is not with us,” Menefee began. “He came to work sick this morning.” Long and Strahan chimed in with humor and support.

“He didn’t decide to go home, we sent him home. Let that be known.”

Michael Strahan, Fox NFL Sunday Co-Host

Bradshaw took to Instagram to reassure his millions of followers. He posted a colorful message late that morning. The post read: “Just in case you notice, won’t be on Fox today. Just have a cold. All good.” His transparency helped ease many fans’ worries immediately.

Why This Matters for Fans

For 31 years straight, Bradshaw has been a cornerstone of Fox NFL Sunday. He’s become a trusted voice millions tune in to hear every week. When he’s absent, fans notice and they care deeply about his wellbeing. His health updates resonate across the entire football community.

The 77-year-old has previously battled serious health challenges. He was publicly diagnosed with bladder cancer in November 2021. Following that, he dealt with a rare Merkel cell carcinoma in his neck during 2022. Both conditions required significant medical treatment. He eventually announced being cancer-free in October 2022.

This latest absence, though temporary, reminded fans of Bradshaw’s resilience. His openness about health issues sets an example for countless viewers. He continues working because he loves the game and his audience. That dedication commands respect from every corner of sports media.

The Broadcast Team Stepped Up Seamlessly

Show Host/Analyst Years on Fox Role
Curt Menefee 19 years Studio Host
Howie Long 31 years Senior Analyst
Michael Strahan 17 years Analyst
Rob Gronkowski 6 years Analyst
Jay Glazer 18 years NFL Insider

Menefee, Long, and Strahan handled the entire show professionally. The trio brought their experience and chemistry to cover Bradshaw’s absence. They delivered the same quality analysis viewers expect every Sunday. Their camaraderie showed genuine concern for their absent colleague.

The team at Fox Sports showed prioritizes player health over broadcast continuity. Sending Bradshaw home reflected the organization’s values. Many networks would have kept him on air regardless. Fox’s decision proved they care about their analysts as humans first.

What Comes Next for the Show?

  • ✓ Expect Bradshaw to return imminently given his “cold” diagnosis.
  • ✓ Fox NFL Sunday broadcasts every Sunday at noon ET during the season.
  • ✓ The show continues its 31-year run without major interruptions.
  • ✓ Tuesday officially brings the next full week of games and coverage.
  • ✓ Fans will monitor Bradshaw’s return with genuine enthusiasm and support.

The NFL season continues with Thanksgiving coverage approaching rapidly. Fox will want Bradshaw back for that major broadcast event. His voice carries special weight during the holiday’s tradition-rich football games. Viewers nationwide tune in specifically for his commentary during those moments.

Is Terry Bradshaw’s Long Broadcasting Career at Risk?

Bradshaw has mentioned plans to stay on air for several more years. Earlier in 2025, he stated his goal plainly: work until roughly age 80. He hopes to cover the 2029 Super Bowl before stepping away completely. A common cold won’t derail those ambitious plans whatsoever.

His health battles have never stopped him from returning stronger. Cancer treatment didn’t keep him away permanently. Neither will this temporary illness. Bradshaw embodies determination and professional commitment. Millions of fans celebrate his refusal to quit despite life’s challenges. When will you see him back calling the action?

Sources

  • People Magazine – Terry Bradshaw’s absence statement and co-host reactions
  • New York Post – Health update and broadcast details from November 16
  • Fox Sports – Official broadcast information and cast lineup

Leave a Comment