From Heisman shadows to a career in broadcasting
In short: Imagine backing up a future Heisman winner while setting school records. Danny Kanell navigated the high-pressure world of Florida State football before transitioning from an NFL quarterback to a prominent sports analyst, proving that a versatile athletic pedigree can build a lasting media legacy.
During his tenure at Florida State University, Kanell occupied a unique space in the program's history. In 1992, as a freshman, he won the backup role from Charlie Ward—the team's first freshman backup since 1985. While Ward went on to win the Heisman Trophy and multiple other major awards that year, Kanell established himself as a reliable secondary option. He notably stepped in against Maryland when Ward was sidelined by bruised ribs, completing 28 of 38 passes for 341 yards and five touchdowns with no interceptions.
Kanell's collegiate career was defined by significant statistical milestones and high-stakes moments. In his junior year, he led the team back from a 31–3 deficit against Florida in the famous 'Choke at Doak' game. By his senior year in 1995, he threw for 2,957 yards and 32 touchdowns, earning second-team All-American honors. Over four years, he set a school record with 57 touchdowns and finished with 6,372 passing yards, eventually leading to his induction into the Florida State Athletic Hall of Fame in September 2012.
His professional journey saw him navigate the complexities of the NFL and beyond. Drafted by the New York Giants in 1996, he became a starter in 1997, leading them to an NFC Eastern Division title before being benched for Kent Graham due to a 3–7 record. After stints with the Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos—where he served as a backup during Jake Plummer's era—Kanell pivoted to media. He spent years at ESPN before joining Fox Sports 1, SiriusXM, and CBS Sports, where he remains a prominent analyst and host.
Interestingly, Kanell’s athletic versatility extended beyond the gridiron; he was drafted by the New York Yankees in 1995 and even played minor league baseball for the Newark Bears in 2001. This multi-sport background and his experience as both a high-level player and an analyst provide him with a unique perspective in modern sports broadcasting.
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