Erin Andrews launches staunch defense of Tom Brady's Fox career and claims he has improved 'night and day'

A three-time NFL MVP, Tom Brady is now colleague Erin Andrews' pick for 'Most Improved' commentator.

'I think he was the most scrutinized person to get into a booth, especially last year, right?' the Fox Sports sideline reporter told the Kelce brothers, Travis and Jason, on the latest episode of New Heights. 'And I'm proud of him.'

Brady famously moved into the Fox Sports booth last season to begin a 10-year, $375 million contract to serve as the network's lead color commentator.

But unlike his playing career, which resulted in a Super Bowl title in his first season as a starter, Brady's announcing career got off to a rough start in the eyes (and ears) of many fans.

First there was the perceived conflict of interest for Brady, a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders whose presence in rival training facilities raised concerns around the league. The NFL has since restricted his access to other teams, but that hasn't stopped critics from attacking his delivery, wording, and occasional misstatement. 

'Everyone has their opinion,' Andrews said, as quoted by Awful Announcing. 'And they let it be known what they thought of him.

'It was funny. I think we were doing Tampa-Eagles Week 4 and I was sitting in my hotel room and they were playing last year's Eagles-Bucs game. And I texted TB and I just said: "Wow, listening to you in this game, which was your fourth game of the season versus now, it's just night and day."

'I'm not surprised because I think all of us know what his work ethic was going to be heading into the job. I think I'm more annoyed about how good he's gotten and how quickly. I'm like: "Come on. Do you do everything well? This is crazy. And you look fantastic."'

Jason agreed, telling Andrews he needs to 'figure out what he's doing' with 'his hair, his skin.'

Andrews pointed out the obvious: 'He's not going to bars, Jason.'

The retired Eagles star replied: 'I'm not wiling to give that up.'

Brady and play-by-play partner Kevin Burkhardt will punch their timecards Thursday in Detroit when they call the Thanksgiving Day game between the Lions and visiting Green Bay Packers.