Reporter Rachel Bonnetta, who was a major part of this year's Super Bowl coverage, is no longer working with the NFL Network. Reports have hinted at cost cuts by the NFL Media, which is a result of their strategic review. Unfortunately, cost cuts often lead to people losing their jobs.
As per reports, Bonnetta refused to confirm the news earlier.
The NFL Network refused to comment on the situation as well.
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Rachel Bonnetta, who joined the network two years ago, had been a rising reporter for the company. Not only did the 31-year-old cover the Super Bowl, but was apparently considered to appear on 'Good Morning Football'. Kay Adams, a co-host, was popular for hosting the show.
Eventually, Jamie Erdahl took Adams' place. Despite Bonnetta's increasing work, reports added that she did not wish to relocate from Los Angeles to New York, where the show is filmed.
Furthermore, the network and Rachel Bonnetta agreed to buyout her deal's final year, but details of the same have not been revealed. Bonnetta's work for the Super Bowl was appreciated, and probably indicated more high-profile work for the Ontario native.
Before joining the NFL Network, Bonnetta was with FS1 for five years and worked with them on multiple shows, including their betting programs. She graduated from Seneca College.
Has the NFL Network let go of employees other than Rachel Bonnetta?
Apart from Bonnetta, the network recently fired Jim Trotter as well. The reporter revealed that his contract was not being renewed, indicating that he was among those employees being asked to leave.
Trotter also indicated that his questions about diversity to Commissioner Roger Goddell could have caused the termination.
When asked, Goddell revealed that he was not a part of the decision. Goodell told reporters:
“I wasn’t part of that decision and actually was just made aware of it about 10 minutes before I walked in here, So, no, I don’t believe that had anything to do with it.”
As the 2023 NFL season approaches, the league is looking at new and lucrative TV deals with ESPN, Fox, CBS and even Amazon Prime Video. Reports add that these contracts, stretching over 10 years, are worth $110 billion (approximately).
However, considering budget cuts and major changes, the NFL Network might not be included.