NBC Sports has taken decisive action after veteran broadcaster and Bengals Super Bowl legend Cris Collinsworth sparked outrage with a disrespectful remark about the Kansas City Chiefs, just hours before their crucial Week 11 matchup against the Denver Broncos this Sunday.
The controversy erupted during NBC’s broadcast on the evening of November 13, 2025, when Collinsworth made an off-hand comment while discussing the Chiefs’ recent struggles on offense. His remark, interpreted by many fans as dismissive and disrespectful toward the reigning AFC powerhouse, quickly spread across social media and triggered a wave of criticism.
According to multiple viewers, Collinsworth said a line that came across as belittling the Chiefs’ offensive identity—a statement many fans and analysts deemed unnecessary and unprofessional during a nationally televised game.
The backlash was immediate.
Within hours, NBC Sports President Rick Cordella issued a firm response, announcing Collinsworth’s immediate suspension pending a full internal review.
“We are aware of the comments made on air and have decided to suspend Cris Collinsworth effective immediately,” Cordella stated. “NBC Sports upholds the highest standards of professionalism, and we will thoroughly review the incident to determine the appropriate next steps.”
Cordella further emphasized that NBC expects its broadcasters to show respect to all NFL organizations, especially during high-stakes moments in the season.
Collinsworth, a well-known figure with three Pro Bowl appearances and one Super Bowl championship, has had viral moments before, but this marks the first time NBC has issued disciplinary action against him.
With the Chiefs vs. Broncos showdown just days away, NBC has confirmed that Mike Tirico will continue as the primary play-by-play announcer, and a temporary analyst will be assigned to replace Collinsworth for Sunday’s broadcast.
The suspension has sparked significant discussion across the league, with many noting that in today’s social-media-driven environment, every comment from high-profile broadcasters is subject to intense scrutiny.
NBC hopes that by acting swiftly, the network will maintain its broadcasting standards and reassure viewers of its commitment to fairness and professionalism heading into one of the weekend’s most anticipated matchups.
