CBS moves J.J. Watt from studio to game analyst

Field Level Media|published: Thu 27th March, 02:32 2025

Aug 3, 2024; Canton, OH, USA; Houston Texans former defensive end J.J. Watt in attendance at the Class of 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Following two seasons as an NFL studio analyst for CBS, J.J. Watt will be the color commentator on the network's No. 2 game-day booth pairing in 2025.

CBS announced Wednesday that Watt will team with Ian Eagle.

Charles Davis, who had partnered with Eagle, will remain part of CBS' NFL roster in 2025 before taking over in 2026 for the network's top college football analyst, Gary Danielson, who is retiring after the upcoming season.

Watt, 36, was a five-time All-Pro in a 12-season NFL career with the Houston Texans (2011-20) and the Arizona Cardinals (2021-22).

"There is nothing better than the energy and excitement of being in the stadium on game day in the NFL," Watt said in a statement. "I couldn't pass up the opportunity to return to that atmosphere each week, working with one of the best in Ian. While I certainly miss delivering hits on the field, it will be nice to leave the stadium without taking any, unless Ian decides to try something crazy."

CBS Sports President and CEO David Berson said in a statement. "JJ is one of the greatest players in the history of the NFL, and a future Hall of Famer. Over the last two years -- as a studio analyst and on social media -- he's connected with fans through his passion, insight and desire to truly have fun. We can't wait for him to now entertain viewers as a game analyst. Listening to JJ and Ian together each week will be a real treat for NFL fans."

Danielson, 73, is heading into his 36th season as an announcer, his 20th with CBS. This year, he will be teamed with Brad Nessler and reporter Jenny Dell.

"I have had the greatest seat in the house for 36 years and have loved every minute of it," Danielson said in a statement. "I have discussed the timing of this moment with CBS Sports leadership over the past few years and we felt it was important I remained with the team during our transition to the Big Ten.

"As we enter our second full season of Big Ten football and my 20th at CBS Sports, the timing just feels right. I have so much respect for Charles Davis as both a person and an analyst. He is going to shine in this role and fit so well with this team."

Danielson was a quarterback for the Detroit Lions (1976-78, 1980-84) and the Cleveland Browns (1985, 1987-88) after playing for Purdue.

--Field Level Media