CBS Names JJ Watt as Tony Romo Replacement: NFL Fans React

Former defensive end JJ Watt is permanently stepping into CBS Sports’ lead NFL game analyst role, taking over from Tony Romo, who was ousted from the company after an Operating While Intoxicated arrest in July.

CBS announced the news on Thursday morning (October 22), confirming that Watt will serve as the No. 1 NFL analyst as part of his multi-year agreement, which runs at least through next year’s Super Bowl in Atlanta. Watt had previously filled the position while the company decided on Romo’s future.

“I’ve had a front-row seat to JJ’s growth as a top-tier broadcaster, watching him tackle this role just like he did his hall-of-fame playing career,” Skydance Global Sports Group chairman David Berson said in a statement.

Berson added, “He’s insightful, entertaining, passionate, meticulous in his preparation, and the ultimate teammate. He has a unique ability to see things and communicate to fans of all levels. We are thrilled to have him leading our NFL coverage.”

JJ Watt Agrees to Multi-Year Deal to Serve as NFL ON CBS Lead Game Analyst

Watt will continue to call the Network’s top games alongside Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson as CBS Sports’ lead NFL announce team.

https://t.co/Wgb2jew4oP https://t.co/StqMDtHnyK

— CBS Sports PR (@CBSSportsGang) October 22, 2026

Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 as a studio analyst on The NFL Today. He transitioned to the commentary booth last season to call games with Ian Eagle and Evan Washburn. Earlier this year, he began calling games with the network’s lead team, Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson.

On October 2, CBS and Romo confirmed they had mutually agreed to part ways, with Romo planning to focus on his health and family. “CBS Sports and Tony Romo have mutually agreed to part ways,” the network said at the time. “We thank Tony for his contributions over the past nine years and wish him the best moving forward.”

Romo had been on indefinite leave from the network since July 31, following his arrest in Milwaukee on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback pleaded no contest to a first-offense OWI on September 1, a civil offense in Wisconsin.

Fans took to social media to react to the news of Watt’s promotion, with one X user writing, “Good for him seems to be a great human very deserving of this.”

“This is great news. I love JJ’s straight-forward approach to calling games. No frills, no gimmicks …. Just solid football talk,” said another.

“He’s an excellent choice. Depth of understanding & natural talent. Not obsequious. Makes watching the game more enjoyable,” another added.

Another wrote, “He took an opportunity and ran with it. He’s been very good I think. Well deserved.”

“This is great! JJ fits the role so well. Excited to listen to him for several more years!” added one fan.

“You could see this happening when he played in Houston. Articulate, likeable. Engaging,” another said.

“Great news! JJ Watt brings incredible football knowledge and insight to the broadcast. Looking forward to hearing him call more big games!” wrote another.