Commissioner Stewart Johnston of the CFL shows little concern over Luke Willson's provocative online behavior as a TSN analyst.
In a bold move, the CFL has welcomed former NFL tight end Luke Willson to their Friday Night Football broadcasts on TSN. This addition to the team has stirred up quite a stir since his arrival, with Willson's unconventional approach to commentary and outspoken nature generating both controversy and intrigue.
Luke Willson's sideline work brings an additional element to the game, providing a real football perspective from field level. His analysis, while unconventional, is focused on addressing major issues that traditional media coverage has often overlooked. This fresh approach has captured the attention of millions, even drawing in people who weren't already die-hard CFL supporters.
Stewart Johnston, the current CFL commissioner and former president of TSN, appreciates Willson's ability to break down football games in a relatable way that audiences enjoy. Johnston believes that Willson's unique approach brings a breath of fresh air to TSN's coverage, filling a void that was sorely missing.
However, Willson's outspoken nature has not been without controversy. He has openly feuded with veteran media members and traditionalist fans, and has compared himself to the notoriously difficult-to-kill cockroach. At times, he has called out the professionalism of the CFL product, even deeming a game as "hot garbage."
These actions have sparked major debates amongst CFL viewers almost weekly, and Willson has gained as many enemies as he has vocal supporters. In fact, his actions have generated so much conversation that Johnston admitted to Rider Nation Pre-Game Show that a lot of discussion has been created by Luke Willson.
Despite the controversies, the CFL office is unlikely to push TSN to restrict Willson's commentary or limit his social media activity, as long as his coverage remains approved behind closed doors. This is because Willson has provided a valuable contribution to the CFL's coverage, breaking down film and addressing in-game trends in a way that was sorely missing.
Johnston has praised Willson's on-camera work and considers him one of the best X's and O's analysts he has seen. Willson's pairing of sharp television commentary with a take-no-prisoners approach on social media has certainly shaken up the CFL scene, and it will be interesting to see how his tenure unfolds.
