The NFL Today adds Matt Ryan, moving on from Boomer Esiason, Phil Simms

The NFL TODAY show is going through a re-vamp ahead of the 2024 NFL season. CBS Sports announced on Monday that long-time contributors Phil Simms and Boomer Esiason are departing from the show’s roster of talent. Now, former Atlanta Falcons star quarterback Matt Ryan is joining the team, alongside James Brown, Bill Cowher, JJ Watt and Nate Burleson. David Berson, President and CEO, CBS Sports, announced the news on Monday following the draft.

Esiason served as a studio analyst for more than two decades. He was THE NFL TODAY’s longest-tenured analyst. Though Esiason is leaving THE NFL TODAY, he is still hosting the BOOMER AND GIO SHOW on CBS Sports Network. Simms served as lead game analyst for nearly 20 years before transitioning to the studio.

“Phil and Boomer set the standard of excellence for NFL analysts,” Berson said. “We are so grateful for their immeasurable contributions to CBS Sports. We genuinely thank them for being incredible teammates and for their passion, dedication and commitment to elevating CBS Sports’ NFL coverage every season.”

Matt Ryan joins The NFL TODAY show

Matt Ryan, who officially announced his retirement from the league after signing a deal to exit as a Falcon last week, is taking on a new role on the NFL TODAY show. The show, which debuted in 1975, is the perfect landing spot for the former four-time Pro Bowler and one-time NFL MVP.

“I grew up watching THE NFL TODAY so I’m honored to join this iconic show and hope to continue the high standard set by Phil, Boomer and others before me,” Ryan said. “I am thankful for this exciting new opportunity and can’t wait to get started with my new teammates.”

“Matt had an outstanding first year at CBS Sports, excelling as both a studio and game analyst,” Berson said. “He is the consummate team player and a Hall of Fame person. We love the chemistry he has with the studio crew and we’re excited to see him entertain NFL fans and share his passion, insight and perspective alongside JB, Nate, Coach and JJ.”

While with the Falcons, Ryan broke every franchise passing record on the books. After 15 seasons, he has the credentials of a potential Hall of Famer. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and was named the league’s MVP in 2016. Ryan also led the Falcons to an appearance in Super Bowl LI, coming up just short of winning a ring against the Patriots.

Over the course of his career, Ryan threw for 62,792 yards with 381 touchdowns. He also completed 65.6% of his passes and owned a passer rating of 93.6.