Behind The Mic: Al Michaels To Call NFL Games on Prime Video in 2026

Behind The Mic provides a roundup of recent news regarding on-air talent, including new deals, departures, and assignments compiled from press releases and reports around the industry. In this week’s edition, ESPN builds sports writing team with the extension of deals of both Eric Karabel and  Doug Greenberg; and more.

Al Michaels Returns to Prime Video’s NFL Package

Prime Video has confirmed to SBJ that Al Michaels will return to call games for Prime Video for the 2026 NFL season. The 81-year-old has been the lead game-caller for the streamer’s “Thursday Night Football” package since 2022 and has called prime-time NFL football for the past 40 seasons.

ESPN Extends Fantasy Sports Senior Writer Eric Karabel

ESPN has reached a multi-year extension with fantasy sports senior writer Eric Karabell. Karabell, who has recently become a Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA) Hall of Fame voter, will continue covering the fantasy sports industry, with contributions in football, baseball and basketball. Karabell will also contribute to ESPN’s sports betting coverage.

Karabell started his ESPN career in 1997 and has been both a writer and editor during his tenure. His signature preseason columns, the Do and Do Not Draft List, continue to be highlights, along with his Don’t Be Surprised series and weekly rankings. Throughout his ESPN career, Karabell has made numerous appearances across ESPN networks, including a lengthy stint as a host of the Fantasy Football Baseball podcast.

“Eric is an icon in the fantasy sports world, truly revolutionizing fantasy content over his decades of coverage,” says Andrew Feldman, Senior Deputy Editor at ESPN.com. “He is one of the most respected voices in fantasy sports, bringing an analytical yet practical approach. I’m thrilled our fans will continue to benefit from his insight and analysis as they set their lineups.”

Says Karabell: “Being a resource for the millions of fantasy players who read my work is incredibly rewarding. I’m humbled to do what I do on a daily basis, and I can’t wait to continue with ESPN. Fantasy baseball is right around the corner and I’m already gearing up for it!”

ESPN Extends Sports Betting Writer Doug Greenberg

ESPN has reached a multi-year extension with sports betting writer Doug Greenberg. Greenberg will continue covering the sports betting industry with articles focused on trending news in the betting space, major money swings or odd shifts, significant bets placed and more.

“Doug compliments our sports betting editorial coverage well by providing stories we know our readers value,” says Andrew Feldman, Senior Deputy Editor at ESPN.com. “He’s an informative storyteller that breaks down the always-changing world of sports betting in an easy-to-follow way. We’re glad he’s sticking with us.”

Says Greenberg: “It’s a pleasure to extend with ESPN and continue covering the sports betting industry. ESPN is a place that embraces what sports betting offers fans and I look forward to being at the center of the reporting to help readers understand the latest trends and news.”