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JJ Watt Has Major New Announcing Role For CBS Sports

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Mar 26, 2025 2:06 PM ET

J.J. Watt landed a new gig with CBS Sports for the 2025 NFL season.

After retiring, the former superstar pass rusher joined the network's NFL Today studio show in 2023. Watt will move to a different role this fall.

On Wednesday, CBS Sports announced that Watt will work as an NFL game analyst next season. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year will join play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle in the network's No. 2 broadcasting booth.

"There is nothing better than the energy and excitement of being in the stadium on game day in the NFL," Watt said. "I couldn't pass up the opportunity to return to that atmosphere each week, working with one of the best in Ian. While I certainly miss delivering hits on the field, it will be nice to leave the stadium without taking any, unless Ian decides to try something crazy."

CBS also confirmed that college football analyst Gary Danielson will retire after the 2025 season. Charles Davis, who previously worked NFL games with Eagle, will become CBS' leading college football analyst in 2026.

As word broke of his new assignment, Watt shared a screenshot of his text message conversation with Eagle.

"Looks like the news is out partner!" Watt told Eagle. "Can't wait to get back into stadiums and call games with one of the best in the business!"

Watt wrote that "preparation starts today" alongside a photo of a cold tub and sauna. A confused Eagle told his new partner that they "sit in a booth and talk football."

When Watt asked the veteran how he prepared, Eagle responded with a photo of a shopping cart with bananas and Saratoga Spring Water.

Watt follows Greg Olsen, Tom Brady, and CBS color commentator Tony Romo as the latest former player to join an NFL broadcasting team.

"JJ is one of the greatest players in the history of the NFL, and a future Hall of Famer," said David Berson, President and CEO of CBS Sports. "Over the last two years – as a studio analyst and on social media – he's connected with fans through his passion, insight and desire to truly have fun. We can't wait for him to now entertain viewers as a game analyst. Listening to JJ and Ian together each week will be a real treat for NFL fans."

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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