After more than two decades of enriching The NFL Today on CBS with his insights and analysis, Cincinnati Bengals icon Boomer Esiason is stepping away from the broadcast booth. Esiason, along with co-host Phil Simms, has been replaced by newcomers Matt Ryan and J.J. Watt in a significant overhaul at CBS, surprising many fans and viewers.
Despite the unexpected nature of these changes, Esiason seems to have embraced this new chapter in his life with open arms. “I was more than happy to step aside.
I had my time there,” Esiason remarked, reflecting on his tenure with a sense of fulfillment. “I loved that seat.
I cherished that seat, I cherished talking to football fans every Sunday, but there comes a time when you have to find some time for yourself. And this was the right time.”
Esiason’s decision was also influenced by the retirement of Sean McManus, the CBS Sports chairman who hired him in 2002. With McManus’s departure, Esiason felt it was an appropriate moment for a personal transition.
“When Sean McManus announced his retirement, I felt like it was a natural thing,” he explained. Esiason pointed out that while he was ready to retire, Simms was not, marking a divergence in their career paths post-CBS.
Boasting a remarkable career that began with his selection by the Bengals in the second round of the 1984 NFL Draft, Esiason has been a prominent figure in football for over four decades. With an NFL MVP Award in 1988 and four Pro Bowl selections under his belt, as well as his induction into the Bengals Ring of Honor last year, Esiason’s legacy is undisputed.
Even as he departs from his longstanding role at CBS, Esiason holds no resentment. “Not one person at CBS, not one boss, not one producer, not one director ever came to me and said, ‘Maybe you should back off with that kind of criticism,’” he stated. Throughout his broadcast career, Esiason navigated numerous controversial NFL topics, yet maintains a heartfelt gratitude towards his time at the network.
At 63, Boomer Esiason leaves behind a legacy of candid commentary, unwavering passion for the game, and a deep connection with NFL fans every Sunday. As he looks ahead to enjoying his weekends for the first time in four decades, the football world bids farewell to one of its most distinct voices, wishing him the best in his future endeavors.