The sports media landscape today is more diverse and inclusive than ever before, but it's important to recognize the pioneers who paved the way. Irv Cross, the former Philadelphia Eagles star who passed away at 81 earlier this month, was a true trailblazer whose impact on the industry can still be felt decades later.

What made Cross so remarkable was that he was the first Black full-time sports analyst on network television. When he joined CBS Sports' iconic NFL Today pregame show in 1975, he shattered barriers and opened doors for countless others who followed in his footsteps.

A Multifaceted Talent

Cross was more than just a pioneering on-air personality, however. He was also a standout player in his own right, making the Pro Bowl twice during his nine-year NFL career, the majority of which was spent with the Eagles. As The Philadelphia Inquirer reported, he was even a player-coach in his final season.

The fact that Cross was able to transition so seamlessly from the field to the broadcast booth speaks to his versatility and intelligence. He didn't just rely on his athletic pedigree, but rather brought a deep understanding of the game and an ability to communicate complex strategies in an accessible way.

Paving the Way for Diversity

What this really means is that Cross was a true pioneer, not just for Black sportscasters, but for diversity in media more broadly. As NBC10 Philadelphia noted, he "set the standard for NFL pregame shows" alongside fellow trailblazers like Phyllis George.

The bigger picture here is that Cross' legacy continues to reverberate today. The sports media landscape is far more representative of the diverse fan base it serves, and that's due in no small part to the path that Cross and others like him carved out. His impact will be felt for generations to come.

As CBS Sports Chairman Sean McManus said, Cross was "a true gentleman and a trailblazer in the sports television industry" who will be remembered for his "accomplishments and the paths he paved for those who followed." That's a fitting tribute to a true legend of the game.