Even a Hall of Fame defender wasn’t immune to the Broncos’ credential checks on the morning of the Week 8 showdown.
Key points
- NFL stadiums require a valid credential for entry, regardless of facial‑recognition clearance.
- Watt’s experience illustrates the league’s strict enforcement of the credential system.
- The incident does not affect Watt’s new role as CBS’s lead NFL analyst.
CBS’s lead broadcast crew – Jim Nantz, analyst J.J. Watt and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson – traveled to Denver for the Broncos‑Chiefs Week 8 matchup, but Watt’s day began with an unexpected security encounter.
Watt said on The NFL Today+ that a daylight‑saving‑time shift prompted an early‑morning walk, during which he spotted Empower Field and decided to approach. After a facial scan lit up green and identified him by name, security told him, “Sorry, you can’t come in,” because he did not have an NFL Events credential.
Security protocols at NFL venues
The league’s NFL Events Credential Program, introduced in 2024, requires a valid credential for access to restricted zones such as locker rooms, the field and press boxes, even when biometric authentication succeeds. A PolitiFact fact‑check cited NFL Communications Director Tim Schlittner confirming that only credentialed personnel – team staff, vendors and media – are permitted entry.
Former lineman Kyle Long joked that Watt may be the first person ever blocked by the Broncos’ security staff, while Watt himself praised the guards for enforcing the policy.
Watt’s new role with CBS
The incident came shortly after CBS signed Watt to a multiyear deal as its lead analyst, replacing Tony Romo for the 2026 season. Watt expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting his excitement to work alongside Nantz and Wolfson.
Despite the morning hiccup, CBS’s broadcast operation will proceed as planned, with the network staging a full pre‑game show from Empower Field and Watt joining the booth for the game.
Reader questions
Why was J.J. Watt denied entry to Empower Field?
Security staff said he lacked the required NFL Events credential, which is mandatory for any access to restricted areas, even though his facial scan was successful.
What does the NFL Events Credential Program cover?
It governs authorized access to designated zones inside NFL venues, using credentials and biometric authentication for team personnel, game‑day staff, vendors and media.
Will the security incident affect Watt’s broadcast duties?
No. Watt will still serve as CBS’s lead analyst for the Broncos‑Chiefs game and the rest of the season.
Source: essentiallysports.com
