[NFL] CBS Locks In J.J. Watt as Top NFL Voice for Years to Come

[Mickey the Mouth]

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CBS has made its move early in the offseason broadcaster shuffle, securing J.J. Watt as its lead NFL analyst on a multi-year deal running at least through next year's Super Bowl.

Watt had been the network's No. 2 analyst before stepping up in August when Tony Romo was placed on leave. CBS and Romo later parted ways permanently.

"Insightful, entertaining, passionate, meticulous in his preparation, and the ultimate teammate," said Skydance Global Sports Group chairman David Berson, praising Watt's development.

The decision removes one prime landing spot from a crowded market. Troy Aikman's options now appear limited, with Thursday Night Football on Prime Video committed to Kirk Herbstreit and Monday Night Football at ESPN uncertain. Should ESPN turn to Greg Olsen, Aikman might need to settle for Fox's No. 2 role at a reduced rate from his reported $18 million ESPN salary.

Travis Kelce, Sean McVay, and other potential candidates also find one fewer chair available when the music stops.

Mickey's Angle: Watt's rapid rise from No. 2 to franchise face shows CBS is betting on fresh energy over veteran price tags; Aikman's shrinking market means big names may need to swallow pride or paychecks this cycle.

Source: ProFootballTalk (also reported by ESPN, CBS Sports) - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.