CBS Sports has officially named J.J. Watt its permanent lead NFL game analyst, announcing a multiyear agreement Thursday that solidifies the former Houston Texans star’s place alongside Jim Nantz in the network’s top broadcast booth.

And I can’t honestly say Iove this.

Watt, who initially stepped into the position following Tony Romo’s leave of absence earlier this year, will continue working with Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson on CBS’s highest-profile NFL broadcasts, including Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta in Feb. 2028.

The announcement completes a significant shakeup in the network’s NFL coverage after CBS and Romo mutually agreed to part ways on Oct. 2.

Watt Earns Permanent Role After Romo Departure

Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback who joined CBS in 2017, was placed on leave following his July 23 arrest in Wisconsin on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He subsequently pleaded no contest to the charges.

Watt moved into the lead booth during Romo’s absence, and CBS executives evidently saw enough to commit to the former defensive lineman long-term.

David Berson, chairman of Skydance’s Global Sports Group, praised Watt’s rapid development as a television analyst.

“He’s insightful, entertaining, passionate, meticulous in his preparation, and the ultimate teammate,” Berson said in Thursday’s announcement.

For Watt, the promotion represents another milestone in an increasingly successful transition from the playing field to television.

From Texans Superstar to CBS’s Top Booth

The 37-year-old Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 as a studio analyst on The NFL Today following a remarkable 12-year NFL career.

A three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, five-time first-team All-Pro and 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, Watt spent 10 seasons with Houston before finishing his career with the Arizona Cardinals.

He transitioned into game broadcasting in 2025, joining Ian Eagle and Evan Washburn on CBS’s No. 2 NFL broadcast team before his promotion this season.

Watt expressed appreciation for the opportunity in a statement Thursday.

“I am incredibly honored and grateful to have the opportunity to represent CBS Sports,” Watt said.

The decision also gives CBS stability at its most important NFL broadcasting position after nearly a decade with Romo alongside Nantz.

While Romo originally earned widespread praise for his ability to anticipate plays and explain offensive strategy, Watt brings a different perspective, drawing on his experience as one of the NFL’s most accomplished defensive players.

That defensive expertise, combined with his energetic delivery and growing chemistry with Nantz, gives CBS a potentially valuable distinction from competing NFL broadcast teams.

With a new contract secured and a Super Bowl assignment already on the calendar, Watt has officially completed one of sports broadcasting’s fastest climbs to the top booth.

And CBS has made it clear that the former Texans superstar is no longer simply filling in for Tony Romo.

He’s the network’s choice for the future, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right one.