The NFL on CBS will have a fresh look for its number two broadcasting team, as Charles Davis has been elevated to the top college football analyst role beginning in 2026. This change comes with Gary Danielson retiring following this season. Meanwhile, former NFL defensive lineman JJ Watt will step into the analyst role alongside Ian Eagle on the network’s NFL on CBS play-by-play team, starting with the upcoming season.
Since joining CBS Sports in 2023, Watt has been a key in-studio analyst, working alongside James Brown, Bill Cowher, Nate Burleson, and Matt Ryan for the past two seasons. His transition to the broadcast booth marks an exciting new chapter in his media career.
“There is nothing better than the energy and excitement of being in the stadium on game day in the NFL,” said Watt via a release. “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.”
A three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and the 2017 Walter Payton Man of the Year award winner, Watt is widely regarded as a rising star in the industry. CBS Sports is looking to capitalize on his growing presence as Davis shifts into a more college football-focused role with the network.
Davis has served as Eagle’s analyst on the broadcast team since the 2020 COVID season. With his move to college football, Watt’s addition ensures CBS maintains a dynamic and engaging presence in its NFL coverage.
“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.”
CBS’s long-term commitment to NFL coverage remains strong. In 2021, ViacomCBS signed a 12-year rights renewal with the National Football League, securing its broadcast partnership through the 2033 NFL season.
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