iHeartMedia is adding another NFL franchise to its portfolio as the New York Jets will move to Classic Rock “Q104.3” WAXQ for the 2024 season in a multiyear radio and streaming partnership/
WAXQ and both the iHeartRadio and Jets team app will stream in the New York market all Jets in-game broadcasts including pre- and post-game shows. The deal also includes cross-promotion, events, and team-specific programming across iHeart’s New York cluster, weekly appearances from coaches and players, team produced podcasts highlighted on the iHeartRadio app, Jets editorial and video talent appearances, and programming originating from Jets training camp.
“We are very excited about our new partnership with iHeartMedia, one of the largest media companies in the country,” said Hymie Elhai, President, New York Jets. “We look forward to welcoming the iconic Q104.3 as our new flagship home for gamedays while simultaneously unlocking the unique power and exposure iHeartMedia’s platforms can provide.”
“We are thrilled to partner with the New York Jets and their incredibly loyal and passionate fans,” said Kevin LeGrett, President of iHeartSports. “The collaboration between our two organizations has already begun and we are excited to partner with them to bring their games, players and programming to our millions of listeners across iHeart’s broadcast, podcast and digital platforms.”
“Being a lifelong New York Jets fan, I couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome the New York Jets programming to our station,” said Eric Wellman, Program Director for Q104.3. “We’re honored to be the home of such an iconic team, and we’re committed to delivering top-notch coverage to Jets fans across the Tri-State area. This partnership represents an exciting chapter for both the station and the community, and we look forward to bringing the passion and excitement of Jets football to our listeners week after week.”
The Jets have been heard on “ESPN 98.7” WEPN-FM and predecessor 1050 WEPN since 1998. The station will be moving back to AM only in August once Good Karma Brands’ LMA of the signal from Emmis ends in August.
iHeartMedia held the rights to 18 of the NFL’s 32 franchises during the 2023 season adding the Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders last year.
This is a full circle moment. Back in 1991, classical 104/WNCN was offered the Jets broadcasts. We said no because it meant also running the pre and post game shows, as well as the Coach’s Show during the week. Too much non-classical airtime.