Russell Wilson is expected to join CBS Sports’ The NFL Today as a studio analyst. According to Front Office Sports, he will replace Matt Ryan, who left after three seasons to become Atlanta’s president of football.
What We Know: Wilson brings a decorated resume to the chair. Ten Pro Bowl selections, a Super Bowl championship, and stints with the Seahawks, Broncos, Steelers, and Giants. Beyond football, his marriage to global superstar Ciara adds significant crossover entertainment appeal. Notably, the groundwork was already underway. During the Giants’ bye week in December 2025, Wilson appeared as a guest analyst on The NFL Today. A move widely seen as an on-air audition.
What They Said: Wilson addressed his future publicly in May, telling the New York Post he had received an offer to serve as a backup quarterback with the Jets this season. Ultimately, however, he appears he’s chosen the broadcast booth over a backup role.
What Remains Unclear: Neither CBS or Wilson has confirmed the reporting by FOS. If Wilson were to sign on, it would likely mean a swap of Ryan for Wilson in the role for CBS. Moreover, the move may signal an end to Wilson’s career in the NFL. He has not officially said he intends to retire from playing or simply step away for now.
What It Means: CBS lands one of the most recognizable names available in the media marketplace. His short experience with CBS last season did seem like much of an audition instead of a one-off. Now with NBC securing Mike Tomlin, this move keeps CBS competitive in the ongoing talent arms race. Wilson slots into an established panel alongside James Brown, Bill Cowher, and Nate Burleson — giving The NFL Today a credible, high-profile voice ahead of the 2026 season.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
