Monday Night Football Commentators 2025: Full ESPN Broadcast Team

By Sarah Miller · November 30, 2047

For the 2025 NFL season, the primary commentators for Monday Night Football on ESPN are Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (analyst), and Lisa Salters (sideline reporter). Additional coverage is provided across platforms including ABC and ESPN+ with alternate broadcasts featuring Peyton Manning and Eli Manning in select 'ManningCast' episodes.

Who Are the Main Commentators for Monday Night Football in 2025?

The flagship broadcast team for Monday Night Football in 2025 continues to be led by veteran broadcasters who bring decades of experience from both professional play and elite sports commentary.

Primary Broadcast Team

Joe Buck – Play-by-play announcer, taking over in 2022 after a long tenure at Fox Sports.
Troy Aikman – Lead analyst, former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and Pro Football Hall of Famer.
Lisa Salters – Sideline reporter since 2012, known for in-depth player interviews and injury updates.

Alternate and Supplemental Commentary Teams

In recent years, Monday Night Football has expanded its offerings beyond the main ESPN broadcast, introducing innovative viewing experiences.

ManningCast: A Fan-Favorite Alternative

Hosted by former NFL quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Eli Manning, this alternate broadcast airs on ESPN2 and streams on ESPN+ during select games. The show features guest appearances from celebrities, athletes, and media personalities, offering a conversational and entertaining take on the game.

International and Spanish-Language Coverage

ESPN Deportes: Fernando Palomo (play-by-play), Pablo Viruega (analyst), and Marcelo Rodriguez host the official Spanish-language broadcast.
International Feeds: Various regional broadcasters provide localized commentary across Europe, Latin America, and Asia through ESPN International partners.

Commentator Roles and Responsibilities

Each member of the broadcast team plays a distinct role in delivering a comprehensive viewing experience:

Role	Primary Duties	Current Holder (2025)
Play-by-Play Announcer	Describes live action, timing, and game flow	Joe Buck
Color Analyst	Provides tactical insight, player evaluation, and strategy breakdown	Troy Aikman
Sideline Reporter	Reports injuries, locker room insights, and conducts interviews	Lisa Salters
Alternate Hosts	Entertainment-focused commentary with guests	Peyton & Eli Manning
Spanish-Language Team	Full dual-language broadcast for Spanish-speaking audience	Marcelo Rodriguez, Fernando Palomo

Table data source:1, 2

The data highlights a clear division of labor among broadcast roles, ensuring both factual accuracy and engaging storytelling. ESPN's investment in multilingual and alternate formats reflects growing demand for personalized viewing options. The inclusion of star players like the Mannings underscores a trend toward entertainment-integrated sports broadcasting.

Evolution of Monday Night Football Commentary

Since its debut in 1970, Monday Night Football has featured some of the most iconic voices in sports media. From Howard Cosell to Al Michaels, the program has set the standard for prime-time football coverage.

Notable Past Commentators

Howard Cosell (1970–1983)
Frank Gifford (1971–1997)
Al Michaels (2006–2021)
Jon Gruden (2018–2021)

The transition from traditional commentary to hybrid entertainment formats marks a significant shift in how fans consume live sports.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monday Night Football Commentators

Who is calling Monday Night Football games in 2025?

Joe Buck handles play-by-play, Troy Aikman serves as lead analyst, and Lisa Salters reports from the sidelines for the main ESPN broadcast of Monday Night Football in 2025.

Do Peyton and Eli Manning still do MNF alternate broadcasts?

Yes, Peyton and Eli Manning continue their popular 'ManningCast' on ESPN2 and ESPN+ for select Monday Night Football games during the 2025 season, featuring celebrity guests and informal analysis.

Where can I watch the Spanish-language version of MNF?

The Spanish-language broadcast of Monday Night Football airs on ESPN Deportes, hosted by Marcelo Rodriguez, Fernando Palomo, and Pablo Viruega.

Has the MNF commentary team changed recently?

The core team of Joe Buck and Troy Aikman has remained consistent since 2022. However, ESPN has expanded supplemental content with more ManningCast episodes and digital-only features.

How are MNF commentators selected?

Commentators are chosen by ESPN based on broadcasting experience, football expertise, on-air chemistry, and audience appeal. Former players with proven media skills, like Aikman and the Mannings, are often prioritized.