J.J. Watt is addressing CBS’ decision to elevate him to the No. 1 analyst spot on their NFL coverage, expressing excitement while noting that it’s “not the circumstances” he hoped it would be under.
The former NFL star was tapped to replace Tony Romo on the network’s football coverage after the ex-Cowboys quarterback was arrested in July on suspicion of operating a vehicle while under the influence.
Watt will be paired with broadcasting legend Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson, the network announced late last month.
Breaking his silence in a Tuesday post on X, Watt addressed the change.
“Haven’t said much because it’s not the circumstances you’d hope it would happen under, but I’m incredibly excited about this opportunity and look forward to working with a legendary team in Jim Nantz, Tracy Wolfson, Jim Rikhoff and the entire CBS lead crew,” he wrote. “See you in Minnesota!”
He also included a photo of notes he appeared to be assembling for a Week 1 game between the Packers and Vikings.
Watt, 37, joined the CBS broadcast team in 2023 after retiring from the NFL and took over for Charles Davis on the network’s second broadcast team alongside play-by-play man Ian Eagle.
Romo has been placed on leave “until further notice” following the arrest, and on Tuesday, CBS Sports president David Berson said that there was “no timetable” on Romo’s return.
“It’s an evolving situation and we are still assessing,” Berson said. “There is no timetable or final decision at this time.”
Berson added: “I hope you can respect and appreciate this is a personnel matter and a legal one for Tony, so I can’t speak to that aspect of things.”
Romo was arrested on July 23 in Wisconsin and charged with opperating while intoxicated, which is considered a traffic violation in the state. He is facing $1,568.50 in fines.
