The winds of change are sweeping through the set of “The NFL Today,” CBS’s popular NFL studio show. The long-standing sports broadcast is undergoing a significant makeover, ushering out long-timer veteran hosts Boomer Esiason and Phil Simms. The shifts are part of broader changes within the program, aiming to refresh its lineup and approach.
Boomer Esiason, a former Cincinnati Bengal, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals quarterback, recently announced his decision to “step back” from “The NFL Today,” a show he has participated in for over two decades. Despite the change feeling more like a corporate decision than his own, Esiason expressed gratitude towards the CBS team.
Esiason started his career at CBS in 2002 as a studio analyst for “The NFL Today” after his successful career as a quarterback in the NFL, particularly with the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Jets.
Esiason brought his sharp insights and charismatic personality to the broadcast, quickly becoming a favorite among viewers for his straightforward analysis and deep understanding of football tactics and player strategies. Over the years, he also contributed to CBS Radio Sports, providing commentary and hosting duties, demonstrating his versatility and appeal across different media platforms. His long tenure at CBS was marked by his engaging presence and the ability to connect with the football audience.
He is set to continue his media career with WFAN, co-hosting its top-rated morning show. “I had been there for 22 years. It’s been an amazing run,” Esiason stated, reflecting on his time with the program and his surprise at its duration.
Phil Simms, another staple of the show and a two-time Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants, shared a similar sentiment about his departure.
Having spent 26 years with CBS, Simms has seen the evolution of sports broadcasting firsthand, and despite stepping away from “The NFL Today,” he is not ready to retire from sports media entirely. “Great 26-year run with CBS SPORTS. Even though that part of my career is over, I look forward to what is next,” Simms expressed on his social media, hinting at future endeavors.
Simms started at CBS in 1998 as a color commentator and quickly became a knowledgeable and insightful analyst. His expertise was particularly valued in his role alongside Jim Nantz in the network’s top broadcast team, where he covered many high-profile NFL games, including Super Bowl broadcasts.
His articulate analysis and deep understanding of the game helped him resonate with his audience. Despite criticism for his style over the years, Simms’s contributions to sports broadcasting have been widely respected, and his tenure at CBS has significantly shaped his post-playing career. His transition from a successful NFL quarterback to a prominent sports broadcaster can be attributed to his deep love for football and his ability to communicate that passion to viewers.
In a recent interview with Front Office Sports, Simms expressed his desire for another TV role, albeit with reservations about its feasibility due to his age and industry dynamics. The former quarterback, aged 68, remarked candidly, “Of course, I would love that. But that’s not going to happen. You know that — and I know that,” reflecting on his long tenure of 26 years at CBS Sports.
The shake-up continues beyond just the hosts. Sean McManus, the CBS Sports chairman who originally hired Esiason, is also stepping down this year, signaling a pivotal shift in the network’s sports broadcasting strategy.
In place of the departing veterans, CBS plans to introduce exciting new faces to its audience, including former NFL players Matt Ryan and J.J. Watt. Their fresh perspectives and energy are expected to invigorate the revamped “The NFL Today.”
James Brown, a long-standing figure on the show, has secured a new two-year deal with CBS, providing a reassuring thread of continuity amidst the changes. His presence is expected to play a crucial role in bridging the show’s old and new eras, ensuring a smooth transition for the viewers.
As “The NFL Today” moves forward with its new lineup, it remains to be seen how this blend of experience and new talent will resonate with viewers accustomed to the familiar faces of Esiason and Simms. One thing is certain: their legacy is marked by decades of expert analysis, memorable commentary, and a deep love for the game of football.
