Fox Sports figures Erin Andrews and Charissa Thompson recently opened up about their connections with NFL stars following a holiday with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift.
During a fan Q&A on their “Calm Down” podcast, they shared thoughts on balancing professionalism and their enthusiasm while interacting with players.
“I won’t lie,” said Andrews, 47. “I’m such a fan of everyone I cover, and it’s always exciting to converse with them.”
Thompson, who hosts “Fox NFL Kickoff” and “Thursday Night Football,” echoed her sentiments. “I still get pumped about anyone,” the 43-year-old said. “When Baker Mayfield pulled off that incredible comeback, I just became a total fan. Maybe it’s not the most professional response, but I’m a sports enthusiast, and sometimes you can’t help but react.”
She continued, “I enjoy watching great football. If someone we’re cheering for shines, I can’t help it… There’s a time to be professional, but I think you need to find a balance with that excitement.”
Andrews, who joined Fox in 2012 after working with ESPN, noted the importance of forging relationships with players. “It didn’t happen overnight,” she reflected. “You have to earn trust—not just from viewers, but from your boss and the players too. Sometimes people can be critical, and you want to avoid that.”
She reminisced about interviewing major players like Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers, recalling how her early experiences at Fox emphasized enjoying her work. “Someone once said they loved seeing me smile while covering games, and that really resonates,” she said.
Recently, Front Office Sports reported that both Andrews and Thompson, whose contracts are set to expire after the 2024-25 season, are expected to receive significant contract renewals before the next football season starts.
Both personalities are candid about their friendships with athletes, including Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford. Notably, last month, Kelce shared a picture from a getaway with Andrews, Thompson, and their partners.
Furthermore, in March, Kelce and Swift were spotted dining with Andrews during a secret holiday in Montana, as reported by Page Six. Andrews and Thompson had previously shown their support for the couple, who began dating in the summer of 2023, shortly after Swift attended her first Chiefs game in September.
