J.J. Watt will remain CBS Sports’ lead NFL analyst for the rest of the 2026 season. The network confirmed the move after mutually agreeing to part ways with longtime broadcaster Tony Romo.
The decision gives the former Houston Texans star a full-time place alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson. Watt had filled the role during Romo’s leave from the network.
J.J. Watt’s CBS Lead Analyst Role Continues
CBS Sports confirmed that Watt will continue working with Nantz and Wolfson on its top NFL broadcast team. The network’s other announcing crews will remain unchanged.
“CBS Sports and Tony Romo have mutually agreed to part ways,” the network said in a statement. “We thank Tony for his contributions over the past nine years and wish him the best moving forward.”
CBS added that Watt will stay with the lead team “for the rest of the season.” The announcement does not confirm whether Watt will keep the position beyond the 2026 campaign.
Still, the assignment gives Watt a major opportunity. CBS’ lead crew typically handles some of the network’s biggest regular-season and playoff games.
Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 after retiring from the NFL. He first appeared as a studio analyst on “The NFL Today.” He later moved into the broadcast booth with Ian Eagle on the network’s No. 2 team.
CBS moved Watt to its top crew after placing Romo on leave in July. Ross Tucker then joined Eagle and reporter Evan Washburn on the second team.
Tony Romo and CBS Mutually Part Ways
Romo had served as CBS’ top NFL analyst since 2017. He joined the network immediately after ending his playing career with the Dallas Cowboys.
His ability to explain formations and predict plays quickly earned attention. Romo became one of the most recognizable voices in NFL broadcasting.
CBS placed Romo on leave following his July 23 arrest in Wisconsin on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He later pleaded no contest to an operating while intoxicated charge on Sept. 1.
Court records showed that Romo lost his driving privileges for six months. He was also ordered to complete an alcohol assessment program.
Romo apologized in a public statement and accepted responsibility for his actions. After leaving CBS, he said he plans to step away and focus on his health and family.
“I’m proud of what I accomplished at CBS Sports over the last nine years,” Romo said in a statement published by Variety. He added that he would consider his next opportunity after taking a break.
Financial details surrounding Romo’s departure were not announced.
Watt Brings Houston Connection to National Broadcast
Watt’s promotion carries special significance for Houston football fans. The Texans selected him with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.
He spent 10 seasons in Houston and became one of the franchise’s most celebrated players. Watt won three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards during his career.
His community work also built a lasting connection with the region. Watt’s Hurricane Harvey relief campaign raised millions for recovery efforts following the 2017 storm.
The Texans inducted Watt into the franchise’s Ring of Honor in 2023. He remains a prominent figure in Houston sports despite ending his playing career with the Arizona Cardinals.
Now, Watt will bring a defensive player’s perspective to CBS’ biggest NFL broadcasts. His continued rise also marks a notable change in an industry where former quarterbacks often receive the most prominent analyst positions.
Houston-area viewers can follow Watt throughout the season as he settles into one of football television’s most visible roles.