J.J. Watt Named Interim Lead NFL Analyst for CBS

J.J. Watt has been named the interim lead NFL game analyst for CBS, stepping into the top broadcast booth alongside Jim Nantz while Tony Romo remains on indefinite leave following his arrest in July. The promotion places the former NFL defensive end in one of the most prominent positions in sports television, though Watt acknowledged the difficult circumstances surrounding the opportunity.

Watt, 37, addressed the change in a post on social media on August 11, 2026. "Haven't said much because it's not the circumstances you'd hope it would happen under, but I'm incredibly excited about this opportunity," he wrote. He expressed enthusiasm about joining the broadcast team, which includes Nantz, sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson, and producer Jim Rikhoff. His first assignment will be calling the Week 1 game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Green Bay Packers on September 13, 2026.

The move comes after CBS placed Romo on leave following his arrest on July 23, 2026, in Wisconsin. According to authorities, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback was pulled over after a golf tournament and performed poorly on field sobriety tests. He was charged with operating while intoxicated, a...