CBS Sports is making big changes to its broadcasting team with the addition of former Pro Bowler JJ Watt to the booth. The network recently announced that longtime lead college football analyst Gary Danielson will retire after the 2025 season, with Charles Davis set to take over his role. Davis, who previously worked alongside Ian Eagle on CBS’ No. 2 NFL package, will be stepping into the college football analyst position. In turn, JJ Watt, who has been a studio analyst on “NFL Today,” will now transition to a full-time role in the broadcast booth for the upcoming season.
While CBS confirmed that Davis will still be part of the NFL game-calling crew in 2025, they did not specify his exact role. Watt and Eagle have previously collaborated on a Netflix production for CBS Sports during the Christmas Day game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Kansas City Chiefs. Watt is part of the revamped “NFL Today” lineup, which includes Nate Burleson, Matt Ryan, Bill Cowher, and is hosted by James Brown.
Following the initial report by The Athletic, Watt took to social media to express his excitement about his new broadcasting role. In a statement, he mentioned his love for the energy and excitement of being in the stadium on game day in the NFL, and his eagerness to work alongside Ian Eagle. Watt, a former player for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, also humorously added that he looks forward to leaving the stadium without taking any hits, unless Eagle decides to get adventurous.
Gary Danielson, who has been with CBS for 20 years and has served as a college football color commentator for 36 years, expressed that the timing feels right for him to move on. CBS Sports president and CEO David Berson praised Danielson as one of the greatest college football analysts ever, highlighting his teamwork and contribution to CBS Sports’ college football coverage.
As CBS Sports continues to evolve its broadcasting lineup, the addition of JJ Watt brings a fresh perspective and dynamic energy to the booth for the upcoming season.
