CBS makes J.J. Watt the permanent Tony Romo replacement with a new contract and Super Bowl assignment

J.J. Watt is now the permanent lead analyst for the NFL on CBS, a role he assumed after Tony Romo's departure. David Berson, Chairman of Skydance's Global Sports Group, announced on Thursday that Watt has signed a new multi-year contract agreement. The move solidifies Watt's position as the network's primary voice in the booth, replacing the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback who was let go following a drunk driving arrest.

Watt will remain part of the primary broadcast team for CBS's top NFL games. He will work alongside Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson, with the trio scheduled to call Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta during the 2027 season. Berson praised Watt's transition from player to broadcaster in a release, describing him as insightful, entertaining, and meticulous in his preparation. He noted that Watt has a unique ability to communicate with fans of all levels and called him the ultimate teammate.

The path to Watt's permanent status began with Romo's abrupt exit. Romo served as the lead analyst at the start of the 2026 NFL season before running afoul of his assignment. He was arrested on July 23 after a traffic stop on southbound Interstate 43 near downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Romo later pleaded no contest to a first-offense operating while intoxicated charge. The sentence included a six-month revocation of his driving privileges and an alcohol-assessment requirement. CBS placed Romo on leave until further notice on July 31, then announced on Oct. 2 that it had mutually agreed to part ways with its long-time lead analyst.

Watt was the next man up, serving as the network's lead analyst since the start of the season. The network chose him over other possible permanent replacements, including Greg Olsen. Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 as a studio analyst on The NFL Today. Last season, he moved to the booth to call games with Ian Eagle and Evan Washburn. In a statement, Watt expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent CBS Sports and its teams. He thanked Berson for his leadership and vision, stating his eagerness to continue working with Nantz and Wolfson.

Before his broadcasting career took this turn, Watt was a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He was also honored as the 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year. His Hall-of-Fame playing career provided a foundation for his current role, which Berson compared to his approach on the field.