Laura Rutledge is currently at the pinnacle of her broadcasting career. As the host of NFL Live and a sideline reporter for Monday Night Football, she’s a familiar face on ABC and ESPN throughout football season and beyond. The 37-year-old, who signed a multi-year contract extension with ESPN in 2025, has built an impressive resume that includes stints at Fox Sports and as the host of SEC Nation. She’s been working tirelessly since the early 2010s, but her journey to the top wasn’t without its personal challenges.
Off the screen, Rutledge has also been raising a family with her husband, Josh Rutledge, a former MLB infielder. The couple welcomed their daughter, Reese, in October 2019, and their son, Jack, in May 2023. However, when she first became pregnant with Reese, Rutledge experienced a wave of fear that many working mothers in high-pressure roles can relate to—the fear that motherhood might derail her career.
During a candid appearance on The Pivot alongside her NFL Live colleague Ryan Clark, Rutledge opened up about this emotional struggle. Clark asked her what it means to "have it all" as a mother and a professional, especially around Mother’s Day. Rutledge’s response was raw and honest.
"For a long time, I thought it wouldn’t be possible to be a mom and also do this," she admitted. "We were married for almost seven years before we had kids. We tried, and when it didn’t happen right away, I thought, ‘Maybe it’s not for me. Maybe I’ll chase this career dream instead.’ I couldn’t even visualize how having a child would work with my schedule in 2019 when I got pregnant with Reese. And I’ll never forget finding out I was pregnant and feeling so disappointed—which is the worst feeling. I will tell Reese when she’s old enough to understand."
Rutledge’s story is a powerful reminder that even the most successful sports broadcasters face moments of doubt. Today, she’s proving that with determination and support, it’s possible to thrive both on the field and at home—a message that resonates with athletes and fans alike.