Describing the situation on a recent industry discussion, analysts argued that Watt now has 17 more regular-season games to prove he can be a reliable, high-caliber partner for Nantz. The consensus is that Watt’s performance this season will shape whether CBS sees him as a suitable long-term fit for the premier broadcast slot or if they will aggressively pursue other options in the near future.
Greg Olsen, a veteran analyst who previously spoke about a potential path to a top NFL broadcast role, is considered a leading alternative for CBS. Olsen, who has long been viewed as a strong broadcast talent, is believed to be in line for a top analyst job, whether at CBS or on another major platform. Reports note Olsen may have a contractual pathway to leave a current network if a No. 1 assignment becomes available, though such a move would hinge on timing and a suitable opportunity aligning with his goals.
The discussion around Watt’s situation highlights CBS’s broader strategic timeline, especially with the network holding rights to the 2028 Super Bowl. The network is likely weighing whether Watt can develop into a Super Bowl-worthy broadcast team within the current season, or if Olsen’s track record for a plug-and-play, high-confidence call could provide a safer path to a Super Bowl broadcast in the near term.
Watt’s ascent was a consequence of events beyond his control. Romo, a longtime CBS lead analyst, faced legal trouble in Wisconsin, resulting in an indefinite leave of absence. While Romo expressed a desire to focus on health and family and hinted at a potential return to CBS in the future, no clear timeline was provided for his reinstatement.
With Romo out, Watt stepped into the No. 1 booth, having previously spent a season in the booth alongside Ian Eagle after transitioning from the studio desk. Watt acknowledged the weight of the moment during CBS’s NFL Media Day, underscoring the significance of the opportunity to work with a Hall of Famer and be part of a team regarded as among the best in the business.
The broader conversation also touched on how other networks react to high-profile debuts. For example, discussions around Mike Tomlin’s move to NBC’s Sunday Night Football, and the promotional materials surrounding that debut, illustrate how networks package and monetize bold personnel decisions in the broadcast landscape.
As Watt navigates a full season in the top slot, he has ample time to demonstrate his ability to deliver high-quality analysis and seamless on-air partnership with Nantz. CBS’s long-term plans for the No. 1 broadcast team will likely depend on Watt’s performance, the development of Olsen as a top-tier alternative, and the network’s strategic assessment of who should lead their broadcast for important events, including next season’s potential primetime and postseason coverage.
In the meantime, Watt’s 17 remaining games provide a critical audition period. The outcome will influence CBS’s approach to the No. 1 booth in the year ahead and could determine whether the network enshrines Watt as a long-term successor in the premier broadcast role or pivots to another established analyst who can deliver immediate credibility and proven postseason readiness.
