David Diehl: Former Giants takes fast track as new NFL game analyst for Fox

Considering David Diehl just retired from the Giants and isn’t a big name, he must have really nailed his audition to become a NFL game analyst for Fox. It will be interesting to see what Fox has here.

Then again, I shouldn’t be surprised. He’s a University of Illinois grad.

The official announcement:

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Versatile former NFL offensive lineman David Diehl joins FOX Sports in 2014 as an NFL on FOX game analyst.  The announcement was made today by FOX Sports Executive Vice President, Production and Executive Producer John Entz.

Diehl (@davediehl66) played his entire 11-year NFL career with the New York Giants where he started on two Super Bowl championship teams (2008 & 2012). The vocal leader in the locker room was selected to the 2009 Pro Bowl and was the only player on the Giants last season to predate Head Coach Tom Coughlin and quarterback Eli Manning. Diehl announced his retirement in January.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to still be involved in the sport that I love so much and that has provided me so much in my life,” said Diehl. “FOX Sports has a tremendous team of talented analysts, and I’m excited to join them and add my knowledge and experiences to the mix.”

Known as “Mr. Versatility” for his willingness to always step in where he was needed, Diehl started in several different offensive line positions including left guard, right guard, right tackle and left tackle. He concluded his career tied with Phil Simms for 12th on the franchise’s all-time list of regular-season games played with 164, missing only 12 games in 11 years. He started all 16 games in his rookie season of 2003.

“We’re really excited to have a former player with David’s credentials join our team of NFL on FOX game analysts,” said Entz.  “Our sense is that he’ll devote the same passion and preparation to his new career that he demonstrated in the trenches for 11 years, and he’ll quickly develop to lead the next generation of NFL game analysts.”

Diehl was drafted in the fifth round in 2003 by the Giants after playing college football at the University of Illinois.