Neil Best of Newday is reporting that NFL Network has hired Bob Papa to handle play-by-play on its slate of eight regular-season games, replacing Bryant Gumbel as the top in-game broadcaster on the league-operated cable channel.By hiring Papa, NFL Network has basically gone the exact opposite route it went when it hired Gumbel: Papa is an old pro who has a firm understanding of the job but isn't well known outside New York; Gumbel is a big name who had no experience calling play-by-play.
Tom Hammond was thought to be the front-runner for the gig but was apparently passed over. NFL Network wanted Al Michaels but couldn't afford him.
On NFL Network Papa will work with analyst Cris Collinsworth. Papa's primary job is as the Giants' radio play-by-play man. He is also the lead announcer for HBO's Boxing After Dark.
