CBS Sports has appointed former NFL defensive star JJ Watt as its permanent lead game analyst, confirming a multi-year contract that will see him take over from Tony Romo in the network’s main NFL broadcasting booth.
The announcement was made on Thursday, with Watt set to work alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and reporter Tracy Wolfson during some of the NFL’s biggest games, including the Super Bowl in 2028.
Watt had initially stepped into the role temporarily following Romo’s arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. CBS subsequently confirmed on October 2 that it had parted ways with Romo.
Watt Expresses Gratitude Over Promotion
Watt said he was honoured to receive the opportunity to lead CBS Sports’ NFL coverage and praised the colleagues who have supported him during his broadcasting career.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful to have the opportunity to represent CBS Sports and all of the fantastic people who make this place so special,” Watt said in a statement.
He also thanked CBS Sports president David Berson for his leadership and trust, adding that he looked forward to continuing his work with Nantz, Wolfson and the wider broadcasting team.
CBS Executive Backs Watt Despite Mixed Reviews
Watt has already worked alongside Nantz for six games this season, although their on-air partnership has received mixed reviews.
Media insider Andrew Marchand described their chemistry as “mediocre” in a report, but said Berson remained confident in Watt’s potential to succeed in the leading role.
Berson praised Watt’s development as a broadcaster, comparing his approach to the determination he displayed during his Hall of Fame-calibre playing career.
He described Watt as insightful, entertaining and passionate, while highlighting his preparation, teamwork and ability to explain the game to viewers with different levels of knowledge.
“We are thrilled to have him leading our NFL coverage,” Berson said.
Watt Previously Worked in CBS’ Second Booth
Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 as a studio analyst before moving into game commentary. He subsequently worked in the network’s second broadcasting booth alongside Ian Eagle, where he earned positive reviews and developed a following among NFL fans.
His appointment to the lead booth was not initially planned, but Romo’s departure created an opening in CBS’ top broadcasting team.
Watt previously played 12 NFL seasons with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals. He won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times and received the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award in 2017.
The Houston Texans inducted him into their Ring of Honor in 2023.
Romo’s Departure Followed July Arrest
Romo had been on an indefinite leave from CBS since his arrest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in July. He was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and pleaded no contest to the charges a month before his departure from the network was announced.
The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and CBS formally ended their relationship on October 2, bringing an end to his nine-year broadcasting tenure.
Romo had signed a 10-year contract worth $180 million in 2020, three years after retiring from professional football and moving into television commentary.
Report Claims Romo Reached Financial Settlement
Reports indicated that Romo received a substantial portion of the money remaining on his CBS contract after the two sides agreed to part ways.
According to The Athletic, Romo reached a financial settlement with CBS before the announcement. The report said he was likely to receive a significant share of the remaining $72 million on his deal, avoiding a potential court dispute.
The precise terms of the reported settlement were not disclosed in the supplied report.
Romo Says He Will Focus on Health and Family
In a statement released on October 2, Romo reflected on his time with CBS Sports and said he intended to take a break before pursuing another opportunity.
“I’m proud of what I accomplished at CBS Sports over the last nine years,” he said.
Romo added that he wanted to focus on his health and family, describing the break as something he had never previously taken.
He also expressed gratitude to CBS Sports, his family and friends, the NFL community and fans for their support during his broadcasting career.
Watt’s multi-year agreement now places him at the centre of CBS’ NFL coverage as the network prepares for future seasons with a new lead analyst.
