Al Michaels faces criticism following errors during Thursday Night Football

Broadcaster Al Michaels has faced significant criticism from viewers following several errors during the Chicago Bears vs. New England Patriots Thursday Night Football game. During the broadcast, Michaels incorrectly claimed a fumble had occurred when the ball remained in possession, and he erroneously stated that quarterbacks Caleb Williams and Drake Maye were part of the 2014 draft class rather than 2024.

These mistakes follow a series of recent inaccuracies this season, including misidentifying players such as Bijan Robinson, Michael Penix Jr., and Marvin Mims Jr. Fans on social media have reacted to the broadcast by calling for his retirement, citing both the factual errors and a perceived lack of energy in his commentary. Michaels, who has broadcasted for Amazon Prime Video since 2022, typically operates on one-year contracts to regularly assess his interest in sportscasting.