Dan Orlovsky Breaks Down in Tears in Front of His Son, Innocent Reaction Goes Viral

Madden Orlovsky sang the Eagles fight song on live TV, which was a proud moment for his father, Dan Orlovsky.

Dan Orlovsky Breaks Down in Tears in Front of His Son, Innocent Reaction Goes Viral

Dan Orlovksy and Madden Orlovsky inside the circle (Image via IMAGO/X)

In Short
  • Dan Orlovsky became emotional after his son, Madden, showcased his artwork on ESPN for World Autism Awareness Day.
  • Madden received a surprise message and swag bag from Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith, celebrating his artwork and autism acceptance.
  • The Eagles Autism Foundation recently received a $15 million anonymous donation to support autism research initiatives.

Dan Orlovsky was brought to tears after seeing his son, Madden Orlovsky, perform on national TV in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day. Madden, 14, showcased his drawings on ESPN’s NFL Live, earning praise from his father as well as hosts Laura Rutledge and Field Yates.

This was not Madden’s first appearance on the Bristol-based network. He also made a special guest appearance last year on NFL Live. Orlovsky responded to the drawings and shared that Madden keeps himself busy when he’s at home.

What I love about it, it’s [drawing is] his… I’m so thankful that ESPN, and you guys, let me be a part of it before the show. He’s just a special, special human.

Dan Orlovsky said

Madden drew pictures of both Rutledge and Yates. He also asked if he could draw his dad stepping out of the red zone, resulting in a safety during his playing days with the Lions.

DeVonta Smith surprised Madden Orlovsky

Being a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, young Madden looked overjoyed when Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith showed up on the Jumbotron behind Dan and the crew. Smith had a special message for Orlovsky’s son.

Dan Orlovsky Breaks Down in Tears in Front of His Son, Innocent Reaction Goes Viral
Dan Orlovsky (Image via IMAGO)

What’s up, Madden? I heard you’re a big fan of mine. I’m also a big fan of you and your artwork. On behalf of the [Philadelphia] Eagles, I’m sending you a swag bag so you can proudly rep us. Go Birds.

DeVonta Smith said in a recorded video

One of the producers brought the swag bag, which included a Swoop stuffy, an Eagles hat, a shirt, and an Eagles hoodie. It also contained an especially curated message addressed to Madden.

Madden, Happy Autism Acceptance Month. It was so great to have you at our All Abilities Clinic. We are so excited to celebrate you, not only this month, but 365 days a year. Please enjoy this box of swag to rock.

Madden Orlovsky read out the message aloud

According to Brooks Kubena of The Athletic, Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie announced that the Eagles Autism Foundation received an anonymous $15 million check. Lurie said, “I think Philadelphia will be the epicenter for autism research in the world.” Moreover, Madden asked permission from Dan to sign the Eagles’ “Fight Song.”

Dan Orlovsky, a former UConn quarterback, spent 11 years in the NFL, mostly serving as a backup for teams such as the Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He posted a 2-10 record, completing 15 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. After retiring in 2017, he switched over to TV by signing a contract with ESPN as an analyst. In 2025, the network renewed his contract.

ESPN is set to remove Dan Orlovsky from the secondary NFL broadcast team

ESPN is cutting back on Orlovsky’s role. Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reported that the 42-year-old will no longer be working on game days. Along with Chris Fowler and Louis Riddick, he’s being shifted out of his current role.

Dan Orlovsky
Dan Orlovsky (Image via X)

Dave Pasch and Mike Monaco have emerged as contenders to replace the trio. The news comes following ESPN’s historic take over the NFL Network, bringing together stalwarts like Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport under the same umbrella.

With the new deal, ESPN will no longer have Monday Night Football doubleheaders among its seven extra games. It means that Fowler, who covered college football, will no longer be frequent on the channel.

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