Watt’s Broadcasting Debut marks a new chapter for the former NFL star, JJ Watt. After retiring from professional football, Watt transitioned into a role as a game analyst for CBS Sports. His debut on September 7, 2025, during Week 1 of the NFL season, saw him calling the game between the New York Jets and the Pittsburgh Steelers alongside Emmy Award-winning play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle at MetLife Stadium. The game was particularly significant as Watt’s younger brother, T.J. Watt, plays for the Steelers. Beyond his insightful commentary, Watt also debuted a new hairstyle, sparking conversation among fans and viewers alike.
From Field to Booth
Watt’s move to the broadcast booth follows his retirement from the NFL after the 2022 season. For the two years prior to this analyst role, he served as a studio analyst for “The NFL Today.” According to CBS Sports in March 2025, Watt joined Ian Eagle to form the network’s No. 2 broadcast team. Watt expressed enthusiasm for this new opportunity, stating he couldn’t resist the chance to be back in the game day atmosphere each week, as reported by Fox News.
A New Look for a New Role
Alongside his broadcasting debut, Watt also unveiled a noticeably different hairstyle. Trading in his signature short cut for a longer style, CBS Sports playfully described his new look as “feathered and lethal.” This change in appearance quickly garnered attention from NFL fans and across social media platforms. According to Sports Illustrated, the new hairdo prompted a variety of reactions, even leading to memes comparing Watt to members of 1990s boy bands.
Critical Reception of Watt’s Debut
Watt’s performance as a game analyst was generally well-received. Fans and critics, as noted by Awful Announcing, commended his natural instincts, insightful and engaging commentary, and strong rapport with Ian Eagle. Reviewers highlighted his ability to strike a balance between providing technical football analysis and offering relatable commentary that didn’t come across as overly academic. Athlon Sports echoed this sentiment, praising Watt’s ability to connect with viewers.
Key Moments and Insights
Several moments from Watt’s debut stood out. One notable instance, highlighted by Yardbarker, occurred when he called for the Jets to run a naked bootleg with quarterback Justin Fields. Moments later, the play unfolded exactly as predicted, resulting in a touchdown. This demonstrated Watt’s keen understanding of the game and his ability to anticipate plays. Another memorable moment, reported by The Spun, involved Watt playfully acknowledging his brother T.J.’s performance on the field. After T.J. batted down a pass, Watt quipped, “He learned that from somewhere,” adding a touch of humor and personal connection to the broadcast.
Balancing Analysis and Entertainment
According to Larry Brown Sports, Watt’s success in the broadcast booth stemmed from his ability to blend insightful analysis with an entertaining delivery. He avoided getting bogged down in overly technical jargon, instead opting for clear and relatable explanations that resonated with a broad audience. This approach allowed him to connect with viewers on a personal level while still providing valuable insights into the game. The Chron also praised Watt’s ability to maintain a conversational tone, making the broadcast more engaging and accessible to casual fans.
Promising Future in Broadcasting
JJ Watt’s transition from NFL superstar to sports broadcaster appears to be off to a successful start. His debut as a game analyst for CBS Sports was met with positive reviews, and his unique blend of technical expertise and engaging commentary suggests a promising future in the field. With his natural charisma and deep understanding of the game, Watt has the potential to become a prominent voice in sports broadcasting for years to come.
