“Lee Corso’s Health Concerns Spark Emotional Outpouring Ahead of 2025 Season: What Fans Need to Know”

As we gear up for the excitement of the 2025 college football season, there’s a collective sigh among fans who know the iconic voice of Lee Corso. The 89-year-old ESPN analyst’s health challenges have cast a shadow over his legendary contributions to “College GameDay,” leaving many to wonder: What would football Saturdays be without Corso’s infectious enthusiasm and trademark headgear picks? Having weathered numerous health battles over recent years, including partial paralysis from a stroke in 2009, Corso’s resilience is commendable, but his absence during crucial games has been palpable. Despite these trials, hope remains vibrant as ESPN’s president assures fans that Corso is expected to return, sparking prayers and well-wishes from the football community. So, as we hold our collective breath, let’s reflect on the irreplaceable role this beloved figure has played in shaping college football. Can we even imagine a game day without his wisdom and warmth? I know I can’t! LEARN MORE.

College football fans are praying for ESPN college football analyst Lee Corso ahead of the 2025 season.

Corso, 89, has struggled with various health issues over the course of the past few years. The former college football coach turned ESPN “College GameDay” analyst has been a mainstay of the network’s coverage for 25-plus years. Unfortunately, Corso has had to take several different absences throughout the past couple of seasons.

The veteran ESPN college football analyst suffered partial paralysis after a stroke in 2009 and has dealt with various issues since then. Corso missed five shows during the 2022 season and has not been a regular member of the three-hour program since. However, he’s continued to make appearances.

ESPN president Burke Magnus told Sports Illustrated that he should be back in 2025.

“I think we’re going to do what we’ve done now for a couple years running, which is we’re gonna have a conversation with him after the season and see where things are,” Magnus said. “You know, he’s a special guy. I mean, he’s one of the nicest men you or any of your listeners or anybody on Earth could ever come across. And he’s been absolutely iconic on the show. So we’re going to get through the playoff this year, let everybody decompress, and then we’ll have some time to figure out what we’re going to do for next season.”

Corso is close with many at ESPN, including longtime analyst Kirk Herbstreit. The former Ohio State quarterback, who lost his father several years ago, refers to Corso as a father figure.

“He basically put his arm around, just me, Chris (Fowler) and him,” Herbstreit said on “The Mental Game” podcast. “I’ll never forget how comfortable (he was). When our relationship changed, GameDay used to do commercials. My life changed from being single to then having (premature) babies. He’s a guy who asks you how are you really doing? I would open up and he would listen. My Dad didn’t listen real well. (Lee) would listen. Almost like the wisdom he was giving me.”

College football fans continue to pray for Corso, hoping that he’ll be in good shape for the 2025 season.

“Lee Corso is everything that is right about College Football, he will forever be the face of this sport. If you’re the praying type pray for him,” one fan wrote.

“Praying for Lee Corso,” one fan added.

“Praying for Lee Corso hope he gets better soon. Would love to see him finish things his way,” one fan added.

“I miss Lee Corso….praying he gets better quick,” another fan added.

Hopefully, we’ll get Corso back to 100 percent health and he’ll be able to participate in as much “College GameDay” as possible moving forward.