Sunday nights won't be the same without Tony Dungy.
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The Hall of Fame coach announced on March 12 that he will no longer appear on NBC's Sunday Night Football or its pregame show, Football Night in America.
Why Won't Tony Dungy Be on "Sunday Night Football"?
The 70-year-old former player shared the news on social media. He did not share a specific reason for not returning.
"I have been informed by NBC that I won't be back with FNIA this fall, and it has given me time to reflect and also to look ahead," Dungy wrote. "It's disappointing news, but I want to thank my NBC family for making the last 17 years so special. I'll have lasting memories of my time there, especially with Rodney Harrison, who has become a tremendous friend."
He added, "God has always directed me in these moments and while I'm not sure what the next step will be for me—whether it will be in football, in broadcasting, or getting more involved in church and community outreach —I know God has plans for my life and I can't wait to see them unfold."
Dungy Has Been on "SNF" for 17 Years
Dungy first appeared on Sunday Night Football in 2009. That was two years after he led the Indianapolis Colts to an NFL championship.
This year, Dungy, Harrison, and Jac Collinsworth, son of commentator Cris Collinsworth, traveled to games to provide analysis. The trio famously shared Super Bowl memories from Alcatraz Island last month before the Big Game.
Dungy's departure appears to be part of a broader strategy. The Athletic reports that NBC is planning to revamp Football Night in America.
Amid these changes, sources suggest that NBC could offer Dungy an "emeritus" role, similar to positions held by Al Michaels and Bob Costas, which would let him contribute in a reduced capacity while maintaining ties to the network.
The future roles of Harrison and Collinsworth have not been announced, though some analysts predict former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin could be considered for a role.
