MJ Acosta-Ruiz

Emmy Award-winning journalist and trailblazing sportscaster MJ Acosta-Ruiz is the acclaimed host of "NFL Total Access" at the NFL Network. Acosta-Ruiz holds the distinction of being the first ever Afro-Latina and woman of color to host a show on the network. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, she contributes across multiple platforms for NFL Mexico and NFL Español. Acosta-Ruiz has covered sports, entertainment, and breaking news for over a decade, while also advocating for representation, equality, and the voices of marginalized communities. She recently co-hosted NBC Sports’ "On Her Turf" podcast, focusing on remarkable women and allies who inspire individuals to maximize their potential.

Beyond her on-screen roles, Acosta-Ruiz is deeply involved in initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and representation for marginalized communities. She engages closely with "A Seat at the Table," a mentorship group aimed at guiding young women interested in sports careers. Her advocacy work extends to hosting various virtual events such as the NFL Pro Bowl Goes Virtual at the Paley Center, and participating in panels like Embracing Jefa Culture at Smashbox JefaCon. Acosta-Ruiz continues to share her experiences and insights, discussing strategies for success, embracing diversity, and overcoming barriers in male-dominated fields.

Acosta-Ruiz also co-hosts the "El Huddle" podcast, which caters to the LatinX fanbase and celebrates Latino influence in the NFL. Her dedication to her craft and advocacy has not only made her a prominent figure in sports journalism but also a source of inspiration for many seeking to make a difference in their respective fields. Her commitment to leveraging her platform for greater inclusion and equality remains a central theme in her professional narrative.