When does J.J. Watt start as a game analyst?
J.J. Watt will begin his role as an NFL game analyst for CBS starting with the upcoming 2025 NFL season.
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Sports Business / Broadcasting
J.J. Watt Joins CBS NFL Booth, Gary Danielson Retires in Major Analyst Shuffle
CBS Sports viewers can expect some new voices and pairings in the coming seasons, as the network announced significant changes to its NFL and college football broadcast teams. This shuffle involves a star player moving into the booth, a vet...
Key Insights
- J.J. Watt transitions from CBS studio analyst to the network's No. 2 NFL game analyst role, partnering with Ian Eagle.
- Legendary college football analyst Gary Danielson will retire following the 2025 season, concluding a 36-year broadcasting career, including 20 years at CBS.
- Charles Davis, previously Ian Eagle's NFL partner, will become the lead college football analyst alongside Brad Nessler starting in 2026. He will continue in an NFL role for the 2025 season.
- **Why this matters:** These changes significantly alter the viewing experience for fans watching top NFL and Big Ten college football games on CBS, bringing fresh perspectives while bidding farewell to a long-serving voice.
In-Depth Analysis
**Background:** The moves come as CBS adjusts its talent lineup. Watt reportedly gained enthusiasm for game analysis after calling a Christmas Day game for Netflix. Danielson's retirement was planned with network leadership, coinciding with CBS's second full season covering the Big Ten after years as the home of the SEC Game of the Week. Davis, whose contract was up, agreed to a new deal facilitating the move back to college football, where he previously called national championship games for Fox.
**The New Lineups:** Watt will bring his extensive playing experience to the NFL booth with Eagle. Davis, known for his work on both college and pro games and even the "Madden NFL" video game, will team up with veteran play-by-play announcer Brad Nessler for marquee Big Ten matchups starting in 2026. Danielson will have a farewell season in 2025 covering the Big Ten.
**Impact:** Viewers will get Watt's insights directly during NFL games. College football fans will hear Davis's analysis on Big Ten games from 2026 onwards, while Danielson's iconic voice, synonymous with major college football broadcasts for two decades, will depart after one final season.
FAQ
When is Gary Danielson retiring?
Gary Danielson will retire after completing the 2025 college football season.
Who is replacing Gary Danielson?
Charles Davis will take over as the lead college football analyst for CBS, alongside Brad Nessler, beginning with the 2026 season.
Takeaways
- Expect J.J. Watt paired with Ian Eagle on CBS's No. 2 NFL broadcast team this fall.
- Tune in for Gary Danielson's final season covering Big Ten football in 2025.
- Look forward to Charles Davis joining Brad Nessler for Big Ten coverage starting in 2026.
Discussion
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Sources
The Athletic: J.J. Watt to become CBS NFL analyst, per sources; Gary Danielson retiring after season
CBSSports.com: Gary Danielson sets retirement as CBS Sports college football analyst; Charles Davis to take over in 2026
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