Dan Orlovskys Son on NFL Live for Autism Awareness

On Thursday, April 2, 2026, ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky joined his 14-year-old son, Madden, on the set of NFL Live in Bristol, Connecticut, for a touching segment marking World Autism Awareness Day. Madden, who has autism, shared his artwork, sang the Philadelphia Eagles fight song, and delivered heartfelt messages to his family, moving Orlovsky and the studio audience to tears.

The appearance highlighted Madden's passions and talents. The studio backdrop featured his colorful drawings, including one depicting himself as an Eagles player wearing number 3 to honor his status as a triplet. Madden, a devoted Eagles fan, listed his favorite things during the broadcast: "I love the Eagles, I love playing video games, I love eating pizza, cheeseburgers, french fries, hot dogs, and chicken nuggets." He then led the show in singing "Fly Eagles Fly," prompting applause from co-host Laura Rutledge and analyst Field Yates.

Orlovsky, visibly emotional, encouraged his son throughout. When Madden noticed his father's tears and asked, "Are you crying?" Orlovsky replied, "Yeah, because I love you. Good job." The moment culminated in a warm embrace as Madden turned to...