NFL RedZone to Introduce Commercials, Host Scott Hanson Confirms

September 3, 2025 | New York

NFL RedZone will no longer be entirely commercial-free this season, host Scott Hanson announced today during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. Beginning with Week 1 on September 7, Hanson will open the program by saying “seven hours of RedZone football starts now” instead of the long-standing “seven hours of commercial-free football starts now”-a change he attributed to network decisions beyond his control.

The adjustment marks a significant shift for a channel that has built its reputation on nonstop, whip-around coverage of Sunday afternoon games without interruption. Fans immediately took to social media to express their dismay:

• “Damn capitalist pigs ruining red zone”
• “Watching a commercial at 1:25pm ET during the first RedZone Sunday of the NFL season”
• “I can’t wait to miss a ridiculous 75 yard td by Justin Jefferson all bc I had to watch a commercial about dog food.”

The move comes after ESPN’s acquisition of NFL Network earlier this year, a deal that granted the league a 10% stake in the “Worldwide Leader in Sports.” According to NFL RedZone’s official communications, full commercial breaks-rather than overlay ads-will now be integrated into the seven-hour broadcast.

Scott Hanson emphasized his commitment to delivering the “best experience” possible despite the new format, noting, “There are people who can answer that question, and they’re not sitting in this chair right now. I host; they do the business”. RedZone’s Week 1 kickoff coverage begins at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, promising viewers every touchdown, now interspersed with traditional ad breaks.