Steve Levy's Potential Return to ESPN's NFL Broadcast Team

ESPN is reportedly planning to revamp its NFL "B" team, with speculation surrounding Steve Levy's potential return as the play-by-play announcer. Andrew Marchand of The Athletic discussed this possibility on his podcast, indicating that Levy could be a candidate for the role. Levy previously served as the "B" team announcer in 2019 before being replaced by Chris Fowler in 2021. Marchand noted that while Levy has an "outside chance," Dave Pasch is currently viewed as the frontrunner for the position.

NBC SportsSteve Levy reportedly has ‘outside chance’ at ESPN’s No. 2 NFL booth

Steve Levy has been with ESPN since 1993 and has experienced various roles within the network. His demotion from the No. 2 Monday Night Football (MNF) team to make way for Fowler was particularly challenging for him, as he felt it was a more significant blow than losing the No. 1 spot to Joe Buck. Levy's long tenure and adaptability have led some within ESPN to believe he deserves another opportunity, especially given the circumstances of his previous replacement.

Steve Levy reportedly has ‘outside chance’ at ESPN’s No. 2 NFL booth

In addition to Levy, other candidates for the play-by-play role include Mike Monaco and Bob Wischusen. Marchand also mentioned that Jason Kelce and Kurt Warner are being considered for the analyst position. The structure of the new "B" team remains uncertain, with questions about whether it will consist of two or three members in the booth.

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Critics have pointed out that Levy's replacement by Fowler was not warranted, given his experience and contributions to ESPN. Marchand highlighted that Levy is regarded as one of the great hosts in the network's history, despite being described as an "okay play-by-player." The sentiment among some ESPN staff is that Levy was treated unfairly, which has kept his name in discussions for the upcoming changes.

Steve Levy reportedly has ‘outside chance’ at ESPN’s No. 2 NFL booth

While there has been no official statement from ESPN regarding the changes to the NFL broadcast team, the ongoing discussions among media insiders suggest that Levy's situation is being closely monitored. Marchand's commentary reflects a broader sentiment within the network, indicating that Levy's past contributions have not been forgotten.

Steve Levy reportedly has ‘outside chance’ at ESPN’s No. 2 NFL booth

As ESPN prepares for the new NFL season, the final decisions regarding the "B" team are expected to be announced soon. The network's history of frequent changes to its secondary broadcast teams suggests that further adjustments may occur as they seek to enhance their NFL coverage.

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• “I think Steve Levy has an outside chance,” — Andrew Marchand, The Athletic

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• “Levy is a guy who is one of the great hosts in ESPN’s history,” — Andrew Marchand, The Athletic

Steve Levy reportedly has ‘outside chance’ at ESPN’s No. 2 NFL booth

• “Joe Buck is Joe Buck, and I get that” — Steve Levy, reflecting on his career transitions.

Steve Levy reportedly has ‘outside chance’ at ESPN’s No. 2 NFL booth