Manti Te’o Joins NFL Network’s ‘Good Morning Football’ as Full-Time Host, Replacing Akbar Gbajabiamila.

In a move that blends football insight with personal redemption, former Notre Dame legend and NFL linebacker Manti Te’o is officially joining NFL Network’s Good Morning Football as a full-time host. Te’o, who appeared on the show several times throughout 2024, quickly became a fan favorite for his charisma, authenticity, and perspective. Now, according to Front Office Sports, he will step into a permanent seat, replacing longtime co-host Akbar Gbajabiamila, who is pursuing other media ventures.

Te’o’s journey from Heisman Trophy finalist to NFL linebacker to respected media figure has been anything but conventional — and that’s precisely what makes his addition to the morning show both refreshing and inspiring.

A Familiar Face Steps into the Spotlight

Te’o’s appearances on Good Morning Football in recent months were met with positive reception from both viewers and critics. Known for his calm demeanor, thoughtful analysis, and ability to connect with audiences, Te’o brought a different energy to the panel.

His chemistry with co-hosts Jamie Erdahl, Peter Schrager, and Kyle Brandt was evident, blending humor with high football IQ and personal vulnerability. While the show has featured a rotating cast of guests and contributors over the years, Te’o stood out for his relatability and genuine voice — traits that align with the spirit of GMFB, a show known for its blend of football analysis, lighthearted banter, and human storytelling.

Replacing a charismatic figure like Akbar Gbajabiamila is no small task, but Te’o brings a fresh and compelling presence that feels both timely and earned.

From Notre Dame Glory to NFL Grind

To understand why Te’o’s new role resonates so deeply, it’s important to revisit the journey that brought him here.

Manti Te’o first rose to national prominence in 2012 during his senior year at Notre Dame, where he led the Fighting Irish to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the BCS National Championship Game. His leadership, athleticism, and emotional story — he dedicated the season to his late grandmother and girlfriend — captivated fans across the country. That year, Te’o finished second in Heisman Trophy voting, a rare feat for a linebacker.

However, it wasn’t long before the fairytale narrative took a dark and confusing turn. In early 2013, it was revealed that the girlfriend Te’o had spoken about publicly — who he believed had died of leukemia — never existed. The elaborate catfishing hoax became a national media sensation, and Te’o’s reputation, once bulletproof, came under intense scrutiny.

Redemption, Growth, and New Perspective

In the years that followed, Te’o’s NFL career — which included stints with the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, and briefly with the Chicago Bears — was respectable, though not without challenges. Injuries and the lingering shadow of the hoax often overshadowed his on-field contributions.

But time, introspection, and maturity allowed Te’o to reclaim his narrative. His 2022 appearance in the Netflix documentary Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist gave viewers an unfiltered look at his experience. Far from defensive or bitter, Te’o spoke with honesty, vulnerability, and grace, winning back the hearts of many who once questioned him.

The documentary marked a turning point in public perception. It was clear that Te’o had emerged stronger, wiser, and more grounded — qualities that have since defined his media presence.

Why Good Morning Football is the Right Fit

Good Morning Football is not your typical sports show. It’s a space where laughter, deep discussions, and honest emotion coexist with game highlights and bold predictions. It’s as much about culture and humanity as it is about Xs and Os — which makes Te’o a perfect addition.

Where some analysts focus purely on strategy or stats, Te’o brings heart. He understands adversity, pressure, media glare, and redemption in a way few others do. His presence offers younger viewers a lesson in resilience, and older fans a reminder of the human side of sports.

His insider experience as a player gives him credibility, while his personal evolution lends depth to his commentary. He can break down a cover-2 defense and also discuss mental health or personal growth with equal fluency.

Replacing Akbar: A Big Role to Fill

Akbar Gbajabiamila’s departure leaves big shoes to fill. A former NFL player himself, Akbar brought energy, humor, and a unique point of view to Good Morning Football during his tenure. His move to other media opportunities, including hosting American Ninja Warrior and pursuing production ventures, reflects his own growth as a brand.

NFL Network’s decision to replace him with Te’o suggests a conscious pivot — from the boisterous and lively style of Akbar to the more introspective and steady approach of Te’o. It’s less about changing the tone of the show and more about evolving with its audience.

As the NFL media landscape becomes increasingly diverse in both style and substance, Te’o represents a new kind of sports analyst — one rooted in authenticity, humility, and resilience.

Te’o’s Vision for the Role

In a recent interview, Te’o hinted at his excitement for the new role and the opportunity to connect with fans in a different way.

“Football gave me a lot — good and bad — and I’ve learned from all of it. I’m honored to be joining Good Morning Football because it’s a platform that celebrates the full story, not just the stats. I want to bring honesty, fun, and perspective to the table.”

That ethos aligns perfectly with the direction GMFB has been moving in — one that celebrates not just the game, but the people who play it, the stories behind the headlines, and the communities that rally behind their teams.

Impact Beyond the Studio

Te’o’s appointment as a full-time host also carries broader cultural significance. In an industry where former athletes are often typecast, Te’o is helping redefine what it means to transition from player to media personality.

He’s not afraid to talk about failure, embarrassment, or vulnerability — topics often avoided in hyper-masculine sports media. And that courage has earned him a following that spans beyond football fans.

Expect Te’o to champion mental health conversations, advocate for young athletes, and use his platform to humanize a sport that can often feel machine-like in its coverage.

What Viewers Can Expect

With Te’o on the desk, Good Morning Football will likely retain its core identity — upbeat, engaging, and informative — while gaining a slightly more introspective edge. Viewers can look forward to:

• Personal stories and connections from Te’o’s playing days.
• Thoughtful takes on player mental health, adversity, and comebacks.
• Unique defensive analysis rooted in firsthand experience.
• Emotional authenticity — Te’o is not one to fake enthusiasm or sentiment.
• Loyalty to the sport — His love for football is evident in every word.

Te’o’s presence will likely appeal to both longtime viewers and newer audiences who value storytelling and emotional honesty in their sports content.

Manti Te’o’s arrival on Good Morning Football is more than a career move — it’s a full-circle moment. From one of the most celebrated college players of his era, to a man publicly humbled and misunderstood, to a voice of reason and resilience on national television, Te’o’s journey has been one of remarkable transformation.

He is not just filling a seat at the table. He is bringing a new voice — one that knows pain, growth, redemption, and joy — to a show beloved for its ability to celebrate the game beyond the field.

As NFL Network prepares for a new season, Te’o’s addition promises not just fresh analysis, but a perspective that embodies what football, and life, are really all about.

Welcome to the table, Manti. Football mornings just got a little more meaningful.