Days after it was reported that CBS Sports would be adding Russell Wilson to their talent roster, the network officially adds one more name to the list. Former NFL lineman Kyle Long joins Wilson as the two new additions to CBS Sports’ NFL Today programming.
What We Know: Russell Wilson and Kyle Long are joining The NFL Today on CBS Sports. They will work alongside Nate Burleson, Bill Cowher, and host James Brown. Wilson brings a 14-year NFL resume that includes a Super Bowl championship. Also ten Pro Bowl selections, and the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. He also threw for 46,966 yards and 353 touchdowns during stops in Seattle, Denver, Pittsburgh, and New York. Long, meanwhile, moves into a full-time role after appearing on the show last season. He has also contributed across CBS platforms since 2020.
What They Said: CBS Sports Executive Producer Harold Bryant on Kyle Long: “Kyle brings an infectious energy, relentless passion and deep knowledge of the game and is not shy about sharing his opinions. He has earned this opportunity and we’re proud to elevate him to a full-time role on The NFL Today. We’re excited for this new team at the desk to kick off NFL Sundays on CBS.”
CBS Sports Executive Producer Harold Bryant on Russell Wilson: “Throughout his career, Russell Wilson has been a winner, both on and off the field. We’re thrilled to add a Super Bowl champion and one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks to our roster. Russell’s preparation and leadership set him apart and we look forward to the perspective and insight he will bring to the studio straight from the field.”
What Remains Unclear: The network has not revealed any specific segment roles or featured duties for either analyst. It’s also worth noting that Long retired from the NFL for a second time in 2022 after a brief stint with the Kansas City Chiefs. How his shift from occasional contributor to full-time desk presence resonates with viewers remains.
What It Means: Following the departure of Matt Ryan, CBS Sports wanted to restore a five-person desk on its signature pregame show. I remain skeptical that the move signals a transition away from Bill Cowher or a larger role for Nate Burleson. However, both additions qualify as major hires for the network. Adding a marquee quarterback in Wilson gives The NFL Today a credible on-field voice fans will recognize immediately. Elevating Long signals the network sees real long-term value in his personality and football acumen.
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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.
