In a major NFL broadcasting controversy, CBS Sports President David Berson announced the immediate suspension of Kansas City Chiefs legend Willie Lanier following controversial remarks he made about the Denver Broncos
during a live broadcast. The suspension comes just hours before the Chiefs’ Week 17 matchup against the Broncos this Thursday, December 25, 2025, adding unexpected off‑field drama to one of the NFL’s marquee holiday games. 
In an official statement, Berson stressed that CBS Sports holds all on‑air talent — regardless of their legacy or status — to the highest standards of professionalism and respect.
“WE DEEPLY REGRET Willie Lanier’s UNACCEPTABLE COMMENT ON AIR. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, HE IS SUSPENDED FROM OUR BROADCAST TEAM PENDING A FULL INTERNAL INVESTIGATION. CBS Sports demands the highest level of respect and professionalism from all involved — NO EXCEPTIONS.”
Lanier’s remarks came during a segment previewing the Chiefs’ upcoming matchup with the Broncos, where his analysis of Denver’s roster and coaching approach was widely viewed as overly critical and dismissive by fans and observers. The reaction was swift on social media and in sports circles, pushing CBS Sports to take action ahead of the Christmas night game.
Willie Lanier, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and one of the most dominant linebackers of his era, was a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ defense during the late 1960s and 1970s. Known for his physical play, leadership, and instinctive football intelligence, Lanier helped define a tough Chiefs defense that competed at the highest levels. After retiring, he became a respected voice in NFL media — making this suspension particularly noteworthy.
(General knowledge of Lanier’s career.)
According to the 2025 Chiefs schedule, the Kansas City Chiefs (6‑9) — officially out of playoff contention — will host the Denver Broncos at
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday, December 25, 2025, with kickoff expected in prime time as part of an NFL Christmas tripleheader on Prime Video.
The Chiefs enter the matchup off a
26‑19 loss to the Tennessee Titans in Week 17, a game in which offensive struggles and mounting injuries — including significant losses at the quarterback position — hampered Kansas City’s production. With both Patrick Mahomes and backup Gardner Minshew reportedly sidelined due to ACL injuries, emergency quarterback
Chris Oladokun is expected to draw the start.
The Broncos, meanwhile, are competing for AFC West positioning and a top seed in the conference. Their balanced offense and stout defense make them a formidable challenge for a Chiefs squad navigating adversity and a season filled with twists. 
CBS Sports has not yet announced who will replace Lanier on the broadcast team for Thursday’s game. The network’s suspension of a Hall of Famer underscores its commitment to enforcing professional conduct on the air — even when it involves revered legends of the sport.
As the internal investigation unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether Lanier will be reinstated after the review or if this suspension could have longer‑term implications for his broadcasting career. For now, all eyes turn to
Chiefs vs. Broncos this Christmas night — where holiday football meets off‑air controversy in Week 17 of the 2025 NFL season.
