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ESPN's Tony Reali Doesn't Hesitate Naming His 'Dream Job'

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Mar 6, 2025 5:55 PM ET

After two decades of job stability, Tony Reali can seek a new opportunity.

This week, ESPN saddened viewers by cancelling Around the Horn. The daily show, which Reali has hosted for 21 of its 23-year-run, will end on May 23.

What's next for Reali? The 46-year-old identified his "dream gig" in an interview with Sports Illustrated's Jimmy Traina.

"If you tell me there's any way, ANY WAY in the world, I mean, who in sports media doesn't love the RedZone channel? You tell me in any way, any sports, stick RedZone as a name on any type of sport or programming and I'm like, 'Wow, that's the type of hosting that serves my sports muscles.'"

Reali seems enamored by the format rather than the NFL show specifically.

"For me right now, it's all about games and a wrap-around show," Reali said. "I'm just salivating. … My energy I think would fit well with that Olympic Gold Zone space or MLB's wrap-around. Games are important."

However, Reali may have a chance to land in the NFL Network's RedZone studio.

Scott Hanson has hosted the iconic show for 15 years, but his future is uncertain. His contract with NFL Network expired after the 2024 season, and Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports reported last month that contract extension talks between Hanson and the NFL Network have "stalled."

Hanson, who hosted an Olympics wrap-around show on Peacock last summer, is in talks with NBC Sports about a job that could include NFL and Olympic coverage.

ESPN is also attempting to purchase NFL Media, so the network could choose one of its talents. Reali remains under contract through August.

He said the company told him they're "excited to hear my ideas" and didn't shy away when Traina asked if he'd want the RedZone job if Hanson leaves.

"Oh my goodness. Come on. Do you watch the Red Zone? It’s the best," Reali said. "That is a jewel of television. That's one of the best jobs in TV. Absolutely."

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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