Joe Buck Defends Al Michaels as Amazon Retains Him for 2026 Thursday Night Football

His return is set for 2026, with the 81-year-old saying he will keep calling games so long as his own standard is met.

Overview

Buck called the criticism of Michaels unfair and said he still considers him "phenomenal" during an appearance on The Sports-Casters podcast.
Prime Video has confirmed Michaels will remain its Thursday Night Football play-by-play voice for the 2026 NFL season.
Michaels faced sustained fan scrutiny this season over perceived low energy and some mistakes, including a botched goal-line sequence in 49ers–Rams and a flat overtime touchdown call in Rams–Seahawks.
Michaels told Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo he uses a personal satisfaction test to decide when to retire and does not feel it is time to step away.
Buck also reflected that his own reputation improved after leaving Fox for a less frequent schedule at ESPN, noting how broadcaster visibility can shape audience perception.