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J.J. Watt inks new deal with CBS as No. 1 NFL analyst

By Thomson Reuters Oct 22, 2026 | 10:45 AM

By Field Level Media

Oct 22 (Field Level Media) – CBS Sports named J.J. Watt as its lead NFL analyst and signed him to a new multiyear agreement ​on Thursday.

Watt, who replaced Tony Romo in that role, ‌will continue working alongside play-by-play man Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson.

The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year joined the network as a studio analyst in 2023 and began calling games in 2025.

“I’ve ‌had ​a front-row seat to J.J.’s growth ⁠as a top-tier broadcaster, ⁠watching him tackle this role just like he did his Hall of Fame playing career,” said David Berson, chairman of Global Sports Group, Skydance. “He’s insightful, entertaining, passionate, meticulous in ​his preparation, and the ultimate teammate. He has a unique ability to see things and communicate to fans of ⁠all levels. We are thrilled ⁠to have him leading our NFL coverage.”

Watt, who ​will be eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2028, recorded ​114.5 sacks during a decorated 12-year career with ‌the Houston Texans (2011-20) and Arizona Cardinals (2021-22).

“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. “From the brotherhood of ‘The NFL Today’ to my crews calling games, I couldn’t ask for better teammates alongside me on ⁠this television journey. ‌I am thankful to David Berson for his ⁠leadership, vision and trust. I love this ​job ‌and can’t wait to see ya Sunday with ​Jim and ⁠Tracy and many more Sundays to come!”

Watt, 37, was bumped to the No. 1 CBS team this fall following Romo’s network suspension and subsequent departure following his July arrest in Wisconsin on a charge of suspicion of operating a vehicle while ​intoxicated.

(–Field Level Media)