When the NFL took its show to Paris on Sunday, ESPN reporter Molly McGrath made sure her wardrobe was as international as the occasion. The veteran sideline reporter, who has become a fan favorite across college football and now the NFL, turned heads with a Paris-themed ensemble that had social media buzzing.
McGrath, 37, was on the ground in France as the Pittsburgh Steelers edged out the New Orleans Saints, 16-10, in a Week 7 clash that improved the Steelers to 5-2. But while the game had its moments, it was McGrath's outfit that truly captured the attention of fans tuning in from across the globe.
The centerpiece of her look? A silk neckerchief, known in France as a foulard—a timeless piece with deep roots in French culture. Originally introduced in the 19th century by chef Marie-Antoine Carême as part of the standard kitchen uniform, the foulard has since evolved into a staple of effortless French style, worn by men and women alike.
Fans were quick to shower McGrath with compliments on social media. "So chic!" one fan wrote. Another added, "Loved seeing Molly McGrath covering today's game in France." A third chimed in, "So perfect."
McGrath's role with ESPN has expanded significantly in recent years. She now serves as a sideline reporter for NFL games and a fill-in host for NFL Live. Her move from college football to the NFL was part of a broader shift at the network, which is pulling out all the stops for its Super Bowl coverage this season.
"I'm thrilled to expand my role within ESPN's NFL coverage and for the opportunity to showcase a broader range of skills, from sideline reporting to hosting in studio, while diving deeper into the sport at the highest level," McGrath told Front Office Sports.
While NFL fans are enjoying her presence on the pro side, college football enthusiasts are feeling a bit nostalgic. McGrath was a beloved figure on college broadcasts for years, and her absence from that scene hasn't gone unnoticed. But with the NFL's international push gaining momentum, McGrath's Parisian flair is a sign of the league's growing global ambitions.
The Steelers-Saints game wasn't without its drama, though. The officiating drew ire from Saints fans, who let their feelings known with thunderous boos directed at referee Bill Vinovich. The game also came amid the NFL's commitment to Paris as a future host city, despite ongoing unrest in the region. The league has scaled back some fan activities in response to the situation, but the game itself went off as planned.
For McGrath, the Paris trip was another chapter in a career that keeps reaching new heights. Her ability to connect with fans—whether through her reporting or her fashion sense—has made her one of the most recognizable faces in sports media.
As the NFL's regular season rolls on, McGrath will continue to be a fixture on Sundays, bringing her signature energy to the sideline. And if her Paris outfit is any indication, she's not afraid to take a little style risk—much to the delight of her growing fan base.
