NFL Honors John Madden With Fourth Annual Thanksgiving Celebration Featuring Son’s Tribute

The NFL honored the late John Madden during its fourth annual Thanksgiving celebration. The league-wide tribute took place on Thursday, November 27, 2025. All three holiday game broadcasts on FOX, CBS, and NBC featured special segments remembering the iconic coach and broadcaster.

John Madden’s son, Michael Madden, appeared on NFL Network’s *Good Morning Football* to share personal family memories. The emotional interview provided a heartfelt centerpiece to the day’s events. According to NFL.com, six teams wore special commemorative patches throughout the games.

Network Broadcasts Weave Madden’s Legacy Into Holiday Tradition

Each network partner dedicated significant airtime to celebrating Madden’s life and career. The tributes highlighted his unique connection to Thanksgiving, a day he famously cherished for its combination of family, food, and football. Broadcasts included archival footage, classic “Maddenisms,” and reflections from current analysts.

The visual tributes were extensive. Sideline stencils featuring Madden’s silhouette were visible at Ford Field, AT&T Stadium, and M&T Bank Stadium. Special coins, featuring Madden and the iconic turducken, were used for the ceremonial coin tosses. These elements created a unified theme across all three nationally televised contests.

Michael Madden Shares Personal Stories on National TV

Michael Madden’s interview on *Good Morning Football* offered fans a rare, intimate look at his father. He recalled fond Thanksgiving memories and his father’s genuine love for the holiday’s traditions. His stories underscored Madden’s philosophy that football was meant to be fun and bring people together.

The segment reinforced the human side of the legendary figure. It reminded viewers that behind the booming voice and successful career was a dedicated family man. This personal touch deepened the emotional impact of the league’s official celebration.

Community Impact and Lasting Influence

The celebration extended beyond remembrance to active support for Madden’s causes. The NFL Foundation made a $10,000 donation to youth football programs following each of the three Thanksgiving games. This direct financial support honors Madden’s lifelong commitment to growing the sport at the grassroots level.

This annual tradition solidifies Madden’s permanent place in the holiday’s fabric. The league has successfully intertwined his legacy with Thanksgiving football for a new generation of fans. The consistent format suggests this tribute will remain a fixture on the NFL calendar for the foreseeable future.

The fourth annual John Madden Thanksgiving celebration successfully blended league-wide recognition with intimate family storytelling, ensuring the coach’s legendary spirit remains a vital part of football’s biggest holiday.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the John Madden Thanksgiving celebration?

It is an annual NFL tradition started in 2022. The league honors the late coach and broadcaster John Madden across all Thanksgiving Day game broadcasts with tributes, patches, and donations.

Which teams wore the John Madden patch in 2025?

All six teams playing on Thanksgiving wore the patch. This included the Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, and Baltimore Ravens.

How did the NFL support youth football during the celebration?

The NFL Foundation donated $10,000 after each of the three games. The funds support high school and youth football programs, continuing Madden’s advocacy for the sport’s development.

What did Michael Madden discuss on *Good Morning Football*?

He shared personal Thanksgiving memories of his father. He highlighted John Madden’s love for family, food, and football, which defined the holiday for their family.

Will the NFL continue this Thanksgiving tradition?

Yes. The consistent execution over four years establishes it as a permanent holiday fixture. The league views it as a core way to honor one of its most important figures.