In today’s PHLY Eagles Podcast, Zach Berman and Bo Wulf bring you the latest on Saquon Barkley, whose tampering allegations against the Philadelphia Eagles have been dismissed. With this news in the background, the duo dives into a comprehensive review of the Eagles’ roster, focusing on the key backups who could step up in critical situations. They ponder whether Kenny Pickett has the chops to replace Jalen Hurts if necessary and assess the depth behind players like Jalen Carter and Dallas Goedert. This episode aims to equip fans with insights on how the team can navigate potential setbacks during the season.
Eagles Radio Voice Merrill Reese Honored with 2024 Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award
Merrill Reese, the iconic voice of the Philadelphia Eagles, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award. This accolade, bestowed by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, celebrates individuals who have significantly contributed to the enhancement of radio and television in professional football. Jim Porter, president of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, praised Reese for his enduring impact on sports broadcasting, noting that for nearly 50 years, his distinctive voice has become synonymous with Eagles football, cherished by fans across the spectrum.
Reese’s formal recognition will take place during the 2024 Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week. The celebration includes the Enshrinees’ Gold Jacket Dinner on August 2 in downtown Canton, and the Class of 2024 Enshrinement on August 3 at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.
The 2024 season marks Reese’s 48th year as the Eagles’ play-by-play announcer. His career in broadcasting began after serving as a Public Affairs Officer in the U.S. Navy, where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Senior Grade. Eager to enter the world of radio, Reese auditioned at various stations across southeastern Pennsylvania. He launched his broadcasting journey with WPAZ in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, calling high school football games. He then moved to WBCB in Levittown, Pennsylvania, where he is currently a co-owner. During the early 1970s, Reese juggled roles at several radio stations, including delivering morning sports updates on WWDB and hosting pregame and postgame shows for Eagles games on WIP.
Reese’s break into Eagles broadcasting came in 1977 when he filled in as the lead play-by-play announcer following the death of Charlie Swift, who had been the team’s voice since 1969. Reese’s ability to vividly capture the essence of the game earned him the permanent position, and he has been the trusted voice of the Eagles ever since.
One of Reese’s career highlights is calling the Eagles’ Super Bowl LII victory in 2018, a moment that stands out as a pinnacle in his long and storied career. His contributions to the field of sports broadcasting have not only earned him a dedicated following but also the prestigious Pete Rozelle Award, cementing his legacy as a broadcasting legend.
