Howard Balzer reflects on 50 years in pro football coverage

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 12:42 PM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

Howard Balzer reflects on 50 years in pro football coverage
Summary

Howard Balzer celebrates 50 years of covering professional football, marking the milestone on August 6, 2026, during the first preseason game in Canton, Ohio, home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In his reflection, Balzer recalls his early career, starting with a chance encounter with Seymour Siwoff of the Elias Sports Bureau, who inspired him to pursue sports journalism. He also acknowledges Siwoff’s posthumous honor at the Hall of Fame weekend. Balzer's journey, including pivotal roles at The Sporting News and ESPN, showcases the interconnected nature of opportunities in sports media and the impact of mentorship.

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By the Numbers
  • 50th anniversary of Balzer covering pro football
  • First preseason game takes place in Canton, Ohio
  • Siwoff is honored posthumously with Ralph Hay Pioneer Award
  • Balzer's entry into journalism inspired by an article in Playboy
  • Career includes roles at The Sporting News and ESPN
Latest Updates
  • 12:42 PMYahoo SportsReflections on 50 years covering pro football and how it all began
What they're saying
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Cards Wire's Howard Balzer explains how he got his start covering pro football.

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