J.J. Watt signs multi-year deal to become CBS’ permanent lead NFL analyst
Former NFL star J.J. Watt has signed a multi-year deal with CBS Sports to become the network’s permanent lead NFL game analyst, replacing Tony Romo after the two sides parted ways earlier this month.
Watt joined CBS in 2023 as a studio analyst on The NFL Today before transitioning to game broadcasts in 2025. He initially worked alongside play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle and sideline reporter Evan Washburn before moving to CBS’s top broadcast team this season. Watt will continue working alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson.
Watt brings an extensive football background to the broadcast booth. During his 12-year NFL career with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, he earned three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, five first-team All-Pro selections, and five Pro Bowl selections. He was also named the 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.
The new role will include calling Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta in February 2028, further cementing his position as one of CBS’s leading voices in NFL coverage.
Watt’s playing experience gives him a unique perspective when analyzing the game. His understanding of defensive schemes, pass-rushing techniques, and offensive strategies lets him break down key moments and explain what fans should watch as plays develop. CBS leadership has praised his preparation and insight. and his ability to communicate with viewers of all levels of football knowledge.
According to Pro Football Reference, Watt finished his NFL career with 114.5 sacks in 151 regular-season games, placing him among the most accomplished pass rushers of his generation. His five first-team All-Pro selections and three Defensive Player of the Year awards further highlight his impact on the game.
Watt’s multi-year agreement comes after CBS and Romo mutually agreed to part ways on October 2. Romo had served as the network’s lead NFL game analyst since 2017, working alongside Nantz for nine seasons.
Romo had been on leave following his July 23 arrest in Wisconsin for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He pleaded no contest to the charge on September 1. CBS subsequently announced that the two sides had mutually agreed to end their partnership.
Watt initially stepped into the lead analyst role following Romo’s departure. CBS has now committed to Watt on a multi-year basis, making him the permanent voice alongside Nantz and Wolfson for the network’s premier NFL broadcasts.
The agreement marks another major step in Watt’s transition from one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive players to a prominent voice in football broadcasting.
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