NFL Shakeup: Ryan Joins CBS as Legends Simms & Esiason Depart

The National Football League’s broadcasting landscape is undergoing a major shakeup as CBS Sports welcomed a new face to its prestigious NFL studio show while bidding farewell to two legendary analysts. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the sports broadcasting world, recently retired quarterback Matt Ryan has been tapped to join “The NFL Today” crew, while veterans Phil Simms and Boomer Esiason are parting ways with the network after decades of service.

Ryan, who hung up his cleats last week following a illustrious 15-year career in the NFL, will bring his wealth of experience and unique insights to the CBS Sports team. The 2016 NFL MVP and four-time Pro Bowl selection will join the esteemed ranks of James Brown, Nate Burleson, Bill Cowher, and JJ Watt on the network’s premier NFL studio show.

“Matt had an outstanding first year at CBS Sports, excelling as both a studio and game analyst,” CBS Sports president and CEO David Berson said in a statement. “He is the consummate team player and a Hall of Fame person. We love the chemistry he has with the studio crew, and we’re excited to see him entertain NFL fans and share his passion, insight, and perspective alongside JB, Nate, Coach, and JJ.”

While Ryan’s addition to the team is undoubtedly a coup for CBS Sports, the network is also bidding farewell to two broadcasting giants. Phil Simms and Boomer Esiason, whose contracts expired after the Super Bowl, will no longer be part of “The NFL Today” after decades of providing expert analysis and commentary.

Simms, who joined CBS Sports in 1998 after the network acquired the rights to the AFC, was the lead game analyst until his move to the studio in 2017. His departure marks the end of a 26-year run with the network. “Great 26 yrs run with CBS SPORTS. Even though that part of my career is over I look forward to what is next,” Simms shared on social media, reflecting on his illustrious tenure.

Esiason, on the other hand, was the longest-tenured analyst on “The NFL Today,” having been a part of the show for an impressive 22 years. While he will no longer be a part of the CBS Sports NFL coverage, Esiason will continue his work on a New York sports talk radio show simulcast on CBS Sports Network.

“Phil and Boomer set the standard of excellence for NFL analysts,” Berson said. “We are so grateful for their immeasurable contributions to CBS Sports. We genuinely thank them for being incredible teammates and for their passion, dedication, and commitment to elevating CBS Sports’ NFL coverage every season.”

The changes at CBS Sports mark a significant shift in the network’s NFL coverage and signal a new era as they look to blend fresh perspectives with established voices. Ryan, who ranks in the top 10 in NFL history in passing yards (62,792), touchdowns (381), completions (5,551), and attempts (8,464), will undoubtedly bring a unique and contemporary viewpoint to the broadcast team.

As the NFL world eagerly awaits the start of the 2023 season, all eyes will be on CBS Sports and their revamped studio show. With Ryan’s addition and the departures of Simms and Esiason, the network is poised to deliver a fresh and exciting viewing experience for football fans across the nation.