Tom Pelissero Lands Gig At Netflix Following Unexpected Layoff From NFL Network

Andrew Powell Mon, August 17, 2026 at 7:16 PM UTC

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Tom Pelissero Lands Gig At Netflix Following Unexpected Layoff From NFL Network ©(Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)

Huge get for Netflix!

Back in July, ESPN unexpectedly laid off NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero despite a year remaining on his contract. With that being said, it didn't take long for Pelissero to find a new home.

According to an announcement from Netflix, Pelissero will be employed as both an NFL Insider and sideline reporter for the streaming service's five-game schedule in the 2026 season. (RELATED: Von Miller Signs With Cowboys On 1-Year Contract: REPORT)

Pelissero will also be co-hosting "The Ringer NFL Show," while making appearances on numerous NFL podcasts ran by The Ringer. Pelissero will also be appearing weekly on "The Bill Simmons Podcast."

Netflix is the streaming home for multiple podcasts operated by The Ringer.

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With ESPNFL, Pelissero had one year remaining on his deal. According to NBC Sports' Pro Football Talk, who cited a "source with knowledge of the situation," Pelissero was released by ESPN from the balance of his contract.

Let's be honest, ESPN cutting Pelissero loose looks more like an unforced fumble with every passing day.

In a media landscape where instant credibility and breaking news are the ultimate currency, letting one of the most plugged-in insiders in football walk out the door is pure .... well ... stupidity.

For Netflix, this is an absolute masterstroke.

When streaming platforms dip their toes into live sports, they frequently make the mistake of leaning entirely on gimmicks, celebrity cameos and bloated studio desks. With the Pelissero hire, Netflix is giving themselves some real credibility here, something that you can take seriously.

I like it, Netflix. I like it.

Original Article on Source

Source: “AOL Entertainment”