Michael Strahan has been a staple on FOX NFL Sunday since 2008, bringing expert football analysis and humor to millions of viewers. Known for his entertaining banter with fellow analysts Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long, Strahan’s football credentials are undeniable—he won a Super Bowl with the New York Giants and spent his entire 15-year career with the team. However, in recent times, Strahan has found himself in the spotlight for more than just his football knowledge, facing criticism for controversial actions that have stirred up fans and fellow analysts alike.
One of the most talked-about moments came when Strahan made headlines for waving an Eagles flag during Super Bowl pre-game coverage. The flag incident occurred when New York Giants star Saquon Barkley encouraged Strahan to show support for the Philadelphia Eagles. Initially reluctant, Strahan finally swung the flag and jokingly said, “For all you Giants fans out there, I’ve been around a lot of guys who left the Giants and gone to other places that I did not like… but he’s such a special man. C’mon, we’re going to ‘Fly, Eagles, Fly.’”
Strahan’s support for the Eagles didn’t sit well with many Giants fans, who took to social media to voice their displeasure. Some called Strahan a “traitor,” while others expressed shock at seeing their former hero back the team’s rivals. The controversy sparked debates about loyalty, with fans questioning Strahan’s allegiance to the Giants.
This incident was far from the first time Strahan found himself at the center of criticism. His early days in television were marked by a memorable slip-up during a Super Bowl pre-game show. Strahan recalled being asked to interview models at a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Party early in his media career, admitting he was “so nervous” that he hoped the footage would “be burned.” Despite this awkward start, Strahan’s broadcasting career took off, and he’s now known for his signature humor and insights.
Another controversy occurred when Strahan criticized the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense earlier in the 2023 season. Despite the Eagles having an impressive 9-2 record, Strahan downplayed their defensive performance, suggesting they hadn’t played their best football. His words were met with boos from the crowd, and the Eagles went on to finish with a 14-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance, proving Strahan’s analysis wrong.
Perhaps the most serious controversy Strahan faced came during a Veteran’s Day special from Naval Base San Diego. While the other FOX NFL personalities placed their hands over their hearts during the national anthem, Strahan kept his hands at his sides, drawing accusations of disrespect. Social media erupted with criticisms, and Strahan later apologized, clarifying that he wasn’t protesting but simply unsure of what to do in the moment. Strahan also emphasized his deep respect for the military, citing his own family’s military background.
Despite these controversies, Strahan remains a beloved figure in the world of sports broadcasting. Whether it’s his candid opinions or his occasional missteps, the former NFL star continues to captivate audiences—though it seems he will always be at the center of conversation, for better or worse.
