The Redskins are expected to hire local television anchor Julie Donaldson to lead its radio broadcast crew, the heir apparent to departing Larry Michael, NBC Sports Washington reports.
According to NBC Sports Washington, Donaldson will "lead the radio broadcast team, serve in other on-air roles and hold a senior-level position in the organization."
Michael abruptly retired last week after 16 years serving as the radio play-by-play announcer on Washington's game broadcasts. Michael was among several former Redskins employees accused of improper behavior in a Washington Post expose published the next day, which alleged sweeping sexual harassment throughout the organization.
The NBC Sports Washington report does not specify if Donaldson will assume Michael's play-by-play duties. It did note, however, that Donaldson's role "will be similar in some ways to the one previously held by Larry Michael prior to his abrupt retirement last week," while adding "it is expected to include new and different areas of oversight."
In addition to calling play-by-play, Michael served in the position of Chief Content Officer and was a Senior Vice President, responsible for shaping much of the team's public-facing image through digital media and broadcast television. He was also the host of "Redskins Nation" on NBC Sports Washington.
John Keim of ESPN notes that Donaldson will likely play a crucial role in hiring Michael's replacement on the radio broadcast.
My understanding is yes she will be key in making that hire. https://t.co/8M8ituXcVC
— John Keim (@john_keim) July 21, 2020Donaldson will be the first woman to be a regular member of an NFL team's radio broadcast booth, NBC Sports Washington notes. She's spent the past decade at NBC Sports Washington, serving in anchor, hosting and reporting roles, including as host of the network's Emmy Award-winning NFL pre-game and post-game shows. She was also a regular contributor to the network's other football programs and led a variety of cross-platform projects, including numerous original video series.
Donaldson began her work at NBC Sports Washington in 2010, working previously at Boston's WHDH-TV (NBC) and New York's SNY. She began her career at FOX Sports in Miami, where she's also worked as a pre-game host for the Miami Heat. She is a University of Florida graduate.
UPDATE (Tuesday, 1 p.m.)
Donaldson confirmed her new role with the team in a Twitter thread.
I would like to thank team owner Dan Snyder for trusting me with this tremendous opportunity.I'm honored to serve this large, passionate and loyal fanbase, and excited to join a leadership team dedicated to making this proud and respected organization stronger than ever.
— Julie Donaldson (@JDonaldsonNBCS) July 21, 2020As a nation, we find ourselves in a time where change is demanded and needed in our society. I'm committed to be an advocate for positive change. I want to support others in and around the organization, and across the community, to ensure their voices are heard and respected.
— Julie Donaldson (@JDonaldsonNBCS) July 21, 2020There will surely be many challenges and lessons along the way. Thanks to the support of my managers & colleagues at NBC Sports Washington over the last ten years, I come into this with confidence.I look forward to serving the local and national Washington Football Team faithful
— Julie Donaldson (@JDonaldsonNBCS) July 21, 2020
