Michael Strahan in disbelief at FOX NFL comment about Terry Bradshaw's weight

Terry Bradshaw has established himself over the years on 'FOX NFL Sunday' as the presenter who delivers the quips that leave viewers doing double-takes, but this weekend, the former Steelers quarterback found himself on the receiving end when Rob Gronkowski transformed a weight discussion into a viral moment that left Michael Strahan gobsmacked on live television.

The incident unfolded during the opening moments of FOX's NFL pregame show when Gronkowski confirmed his return plans, revealing he would officially step onto the pitch at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Saudi Arabia next March. The NFL has already issued a statement reminding that the event lacks official backing, with the league refusing to provide injury cover from its current provisions, but that did little to deter Gronk or Tom Brady from promoting their involvement online.

"I've got to pick it up a little and run fast speed routes," Gronkowski remarked with a chuckle as Bradshaw continued by enquiring about his present weight.

What began as an innocent enquiry quickly escalated when Gronk misunderstood the complete context and seized the chance to deliver a dig at one of the programme's most cherished personalities.

"I've got to lose about 20 pounds just like you," Gronkowski declared. His comment immediately prompted gasps and responses from the studio.

The camera switched to Strahan, who recoiled in astonishment with his eyes wide open in shock..

Gronkowski appeared to recognise the remark may have overstepped the mark and attempted to soften his words with an "I'm just messing around," afterwards, but the damage was already done. "Don't be shaking his hand. That wasn't funny," Bradshaw admonished Strahan after the Giants legend warmly greeted Gronkowski.

Bradshaw himself made light of Chiefs head coach Andy Reid's weight following the 2023 Super Bowl. During the live broadcast, he jovially beckoned Reid over, saying, "Come on, waddle over here," and, "Have a cheeseburger on us."

He later expressed regret for these remarks.

After the laughter subsided, the FOX crew returned their focus to football, which did little to salvage Strahan's reputation after his prediction about the Falcons spectacularly backfired.

The former Super Bowl champion had confidently declared Atlanta "the better team" ahead of their away game against the Carolina Panthers, only to witness Bryce Young and Carolina annihilate the Falcons 30-0 in their first victory of the season.

Atlanta appeared utterly defeated in its most crushing shutout loss of the season.

The other early Week 3 games were not without their own drama.

The Eagles managed to overturn a 19-7 halftime deficit to triumph over the Rams 33-26 in a playoff rematch. Jalen Hurts and the Philly offence rallied to outscore Los Angeles 26-7 in the second half.

Bradshaw's Pittsburgh Steelers advanced to 2-1 by overcoming the Patriots 21-14. Rodgers threw his 509th career touchdown pass in the win, surpassing Brett Favre to ascend to fourth place on the NFL's all-time list.

Rodgers now sits behind only Peyton Manning (539), Drew Brees (571), and Tom Brady (649).

Bradshaw, who dedicated his entire career to the Steelers, retired with an impressive 212 touchdowns over 14 seasons. This achievement solidified his place in the franchise's history before he transitioned into a successful television career.

This article first appeared on Mirror US.