CBS Sports is shaking up its iconic pre-game show, “The Nfl Today,” with the addition of former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and the departure of veteran analysts Phil Simms and Boomer Esiason. This significant change marks the first major programming shift under the leadership of David Berson, the new president of CBS Sports. Ryan will join the existing team of James Brown, Nate Burleson, Bill Cowher, and JJ Watt for the upcoming NFL season.
A New Era for The NFL Today
Matt Ryan’s transition to broadcasting after a distinguished NFL career has been remarkably smooth. In his first year with CBS Sports, Ryan impressed as both a game and studio analyst. Berson praised Ryan’s teamwork, personality, and on-air chemistry with the current “The NFL Today” crew. The network anticipates Ryan’s insights and enthusiasm will resonate with viewers.
This revamp comes as “The NFL Today,” which premiered in 1975 as the first live pre-game studio show, faces increased competition from other networks. NBC’s “Football Night in America” has undergone similar changes in recent years, and significant talent shifts have reshaped on-air teams at ESPN and Fox as well. CBS Sports is strategically positioning itself within this evolving landscape.
Simms and Esiason’s Legacy
While CBS celebrates the arrival of Ryan, the network also acknowledges the contributions of departing analysts. Simms, a former Super Bowl MVP quarterback, served as CBS’s lead game analyst for nearly two decades before transitioning to “The NFL Today.” Esiason, a renowned quarterback and broadcaster, has been the longest-tenured analyst on the show.
Esiason is expected to remain with CBS Sports Network, continuing his popular radio show, “Boomer and Gio Show.” The future roles of Simms at CBS, if any, remain unclear. However, both Simms and Esiason leave behind a legacy of insightful analysis and memorable moments on “The NFL Today.”
Burleson’s Continued Presence
In addition to the changes at “The NFL Today,” CBS News confirmed that Nate Burleson, a key member of the “CBS Mornings” team, has renewed his contract. The network praised Burleson’s versatility and authentic on-air presence, highlighting his contribution to the show’s growing success. This renewal ensures Burleson’s continued presence across multiple CBS platforms. This move underscores the network’s commitment to retaining its top talent.
Looking Ahead
The changes at “The NFL Today” signify a new chapter for the long-running show. With Matt Ryan joining a talented team of analysts, CBS Sports aims to invigorate its pre-game coverage and attract a new generation of viewers. As the NFL season approaches, football fans will be eager to see how this revamped lineup shapes the future of “The NFL Today.” This significant reshuffling of on-air talent indicates CBS’s commitment to staying competitive in the ever-evolving world of sports broadcasting.
