Merrill Reese is the longest tenured radio play-by-play announcer in the history of the NFL. He has been with the Philadelphia Eagles since 1977, covering the team’s players, coaches, and owners in locker rooms, on the sidelines, and on road trips.

Beyond the Booth is a heartfelt history of the Eagles as recounted by Reese in conversation with the interviewer who knows him best—his wife, Cindy. Reese shares his memories and recollections of the team from the Dick Vermeil years through the Nick Sirianni era. (Spoiler alert: he was no Chip Kelly fan.) Cindy draws out her husband’s observations on the authenticity of the team’s personalities and leaders and how they make it successful. Merrill also describes his relationships with his broadcast colleagues and players, including Jalen Hurts.  

With her insider perspective, Cindy knows what to ask for Merrill to share his thoughts on his connection with the fans and success as a broadcaster, such as how performing in TV commercials as a child helped him develop his keen memorization skills. (She uses flashcards to test Merrill on players.)

Reese’s passion for the game, shared by his wife, is infectious. Beyond the Booth will excite every Eagles fan. 

Cindy Reese holds a doctorate in education and is an Adjunct Professor at Gwynedd Mercy University. A middle school teacher for 20 years, she has also worked in public relations at The Franklin Institute and Germantown Friends School.

Merrill Reese has been the play-by-play voice of the Philadelphia Eagles broadcasts on WIP since 1977. Among his many awards, the Pro Football Hall of Fame honored him with the Pete Roselle Radio-Television Award for broadcasting in 2024. He is in eight Halls of Fame including the Philadelphia Eagles, Temple University, and Overbrook High School. He is the author of Sportscasting: Turning Your Passion into a Profession and coauthor of Merrill Reese: It's Gooooood!