JJ Watt Lands Multiyear Deal as CBS Sports Full Time Lead NFL Analyst, Replacing Tony Romo

Former NFL Defensive Star Takes Over Top Broadcast Role Alongside Jim Nantz

CBS Sports has reached a multiyear agreement with JJ Watt to become the network’s full time lead NFL game analyst, officially establishing the former defensive superstar as the replacement for Tony Romo in its top broadcast booth.

The network announced the agreement Thursday, confirming Watt’s move from an interim role to a permanent position alongside longtime play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson. Watt had been serving as CBS’ lead analyst on an interim basis this season after Romo stepped away from the broadcast booth while dealing with the fallout from a July drunken driving arrest.

Watt, 37, has quickly established himself as a prominent voice in NFL broadcasting since joining CBS as a studio analyst in 2023. He transitioned to the broadcast booth last season before being elevated to the network’s top game team earlier this year. The multiyear agreement gives CBS a long-term answer at one of the most prominent positions in NFL television coverage following the end of Romo’s decade long tenure with the network.

Tony Romo’s Departure Ends 10-Year CBS Tenure

CBS Sports officially agreed to part ways with Romo earlier this month, bringing an end to the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback’s 10-year run as the network’s lead NFL game analyst. Romo’s departure followed his July 23 traffic stop in Milwaukee, where he was arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle while under the influence. He pleaded no contest on Sept. 1, and his driving privileges were revoked for six months.

Romo joined CBS in 2017 after retiring from the NFL and quickly became one of the most recognizable analysts in football broadcasting. Known for predicting plays before they developed and offering detailed quarterback insights, he helped establish a new style of commentary during his time in the booth.

Watt now inherits the responsibility of leading CBS’ premier NFL broadcast team, bringing a different perspective shaped by his experience as one of the league’s most dominant defensive players.

Three Time Defensive Player of the Year Brings On-Field Experience

Watt retired following the 2022 season after a 12-year NFL career with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals. He earned three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards and became one of the most accomplished defensive players of his generation.

His playing career provides him with firsthand knowledge of the physical demands, tactical adjustments and split second decisions that define professional football. That experience has been a central part of his transition into broadcasting, where he has worked to explain the game from a defensive player’s perspective.

Watt’s promotion also gives CBS continuity as it moves forward with its established broadcast team. His partnership with Nantz has already produced several memorable moments, including a lighthearted exchange during last week’s Buffalo Bills-Las Vegas Raiders game.

Watt and Nantz Share Memorable On Air Moment

During last week’s broadcast, Watt demonstrated how defensive players attempt to dislodge the football using the technique known as the “Peanut Punch,” named after former NFL defensive back Charles “Peanut” Tillman.

Nantz attempted to knock the ball out of Watt’s hands but instead struck his wrist hard against the football. The veteran broadcaster immediately grabbed his hand, prompting concern and a bit of humor during the broadcast.

Nantz was seen with an ice pack after halftime and joked that he had broken his wrist. However, he clarified during interviews this week that nothing was broken. The exchange offered a glimpse of the chemistry developing between Watt and Nantz as they continue working together on CBS’ marquee NFL broadcasts. Nantz is expected to be in the booth with Watt for Sunday’s game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens.

Watt Set to Call Super Bowl LXII

Watt’s new agreement will also put him in position to call one of the biggest games of his broadcasting career. CBS is scheduled to carry Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta in February 2028, with Watt set to serve as the lead game analyst. The assignment represents a significant milestone for the former NFL star, who retired from playing less than six years before the championship broadcast.

With his permanent appointment now official, Watt will continue building his broadcasting career alongside Nantz and Wolfson while taking over the lead analyst role previously occupied by Romo. For CBS Sports, the agreement provides stability at the top of its NFL coverage and signals confidence in Watt’s ability to become a leading voice in football broadcasting for years to come.