Kirk Herbstreit’s Son Set to Shake Up College Football Broadcasts in 2025—Here’s What You Need to Know!

Is it really a surprise when the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree? Zak Herbstreit, son of ESPN’s college football guru Kirk Herbstreit, is stepping off the gridiron but right into the analyst’s chair for the upcoming season. Just a heartbeat ago, Zak was striving as a tight end at Ohio State, savoring the highs of a national championship run — only to have his playing days cut short by a heart condition. But here’s the kicker: instead of letting that setback define him, Zak’s flipping the script—literally—by launching his own show, “Off Script,” where he’ll dive deep with the biggest names in college football. Can he carve out his own legacy, or is this just the opening act for what might be a generational media dynasty? Whatever happens, one thing’s clear: Saturdays just got a little more compelling. LEARN MORE.

Meet The Wife Of Kirk Herbstreit (1:13)

Zak Herbstreit, the son of ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, has landed an analyst role for the upcoming college football season.

Just a year ago, Herbstreit’s son was getting ready to play tight end at Ohio State. He didn’t have a huge role in Ryan Day’s offense, but the 6-foot-2 tight still enjoyed the team’s ride all the way to the national championship game. Unfortunately, he medically retired due to a heart-related condition.

That being said, it didn’t take long for Zak Herbstreit to figure out his next chapter. On Monday, he officially agreed to become a national college football analyst for On3.

As part of this agreement with On3, Herbstreit will host his very own show called “Off Script.” He’ll interview the top players, coaches and voices in college football.

“Zak has tremendous natural talent and has grown up immersed in college,” On3 Founder Shannon Terry said. “His ability to connect with today’s college stars will bring a fresh and authentic perspective to the On3 network. He’ll be traveling each week to the biggest games across the country, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at everything that makes Saturdays the greatest day in sports.”

ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 07: TV Commentator Kirk Herbstreit before the SEC championship football game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Texas Longhorns on December 7, 2024 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Icon Sportswire/Getty Images

This is just the start of Herbstreit following in his father’s footsteps. Who knows? Maybe he’ll one day become one of the top analysts in college football.

For now though, Herbstreit is just grateful for the opportunity with On3.

“I’m grateful for the path that led me here, and I’m excited to bring real passion, insight, and a player’s mindset to the content that On3 creates,” the former Ohio State tight end said.

We’re wishing Herbstreit all the best as he enters the next chapter of his career.