" Right before I left ESPN, someone suggested doing a NFL story in the spring. The person was laughed out of the room. "
- Rich Eisen

In the context of sports journalism, this statement highlights a common perception that covering professional football during the off-season, when there are no games or significant events happening, might be an unusual choice for news outlets. The speaker suggests that such an idea was met with skepticism and dismissal by others at ESPN.

The quote delves into deeper insights about the unpredictable nature of media trends and audience interests. It reflects how certain ideas may initially seem unconventional but can later prove to be innovative and successful when embraced. This also underscores the evolving landscape of sports journalism, where covering stories outside the traditional peak periods has become more acceptable and even expected by audiences seeking year-round engagement with their favorite sports.

Rich Eisen is a well-known American television host and sportscaster, famous for his work in NFL coverage. He hosted "SportsCenter" on ESPN and currently hosts "CBS Sports HQ," among other projects. His background in breaking the mold of conventional broadcasting methods adds credibility to the statement about the changing dynamics within the sports journalism industry.