Talking Houston Texans football with James Brown from CBS Sports

James Brown hosts "The NFL Today" on CBS. He is a three-time Emmy Award-winning network broadcaster. In August 2020, Brown was elected into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Among numerous honors, he was also awarded the 2016 Pete Rozelle Award by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which recognizes "longtime exceptional contributions to radio and television in professional football," and "The Uncommon Award" from Tony Dungy for his "uncommon leadership through character and faith.”

But beyond all the accolades, James Brown is one of the nicest individuals I have had the privilege to know.

It was great catching up with JB and discussing the Texans, as well as having a Houston legend on his broadcast team.

Craig: What surprised you more last season, CJ Stroud’s accuracy and decision making while under center or the overall maturity and grace he possessed during and at the conclusion of contests in post-game interviews?

JB: I was not surprised at his accuracy or decision making because he played “Big Boy Football” at Ohio State…so the level of competition didn’t phase him. I was far more impressed with his overall maturity and grace both on the field and in the manner in which he handled his post-game interviews. It was abundantly clear that this was a young man “wise beyond his years”. I happen to think he is more than a breath of fresh air and an excellent role model. And to be clear, he attributed all of this to him being firmly grounded in his Christian faith.

Craig: What has it been like getting to know and work with J.J. Watt on the set?

JB: It was a blessing getting to know and work with J.J. Watt on the set. A sure-fire first ballot Hall of Famer, he was confident, very knowledgeable, a quick-wit, and refreshingly, a team player. He is not afraid of taking a strong position on any topic. I am excited to continue to work with him. Oh! And to have a caring, community-minded heart that is as big as the State of Texas.

Craig: Do you think the success that DeMeco Ryans is having will have a favorable impact on more NFL owners ultimately hiring additional minority head coaches?

JB: The success that Coach DeMeco Ryans enjoyed in year one is not surprising given the kind of heady player he was, always thinking of “a play or two ahead of the action”. He was the consummate example of a “thinking man’s player” and that gift carried over to his superb efforts as a Defensive Coordinator. There are many others like him…and have been many others before him…deserving of the opportunity as a head coach.

I would certainly hope that we are well beyond the mistaken assumption that excellence is unique to a limited group of people.

Craig: The season officially gets underway in August with the HOF game which will feature the Houston Texans. There’s an extra synergy with Andre Johnson finally being enshrined. Why do you think it took so long for Andre to finally get that call to Canton?

JB: I am not sure what factors were at play that kept an extraordinary talent like Andre Johnson from being enshrined in the Hall of Fame. His talent, invaluable contributions, and impact on that organization (Houston Texans) clearly make him an HOF talent. Unfortunately, playing on a team that isn’t a big-time winner has hampered the efforts of other worthwhile talent from being enshrined in Canton, Ohio.

Craig: Next time you visit Houston, we’ll grab some BBQ. Are you more of a brisket or ribs guy?

JB: As you can tell, with my fluctuating weight over many years, I haven’t been as discriminating as I should’ve been…but if forced to make a choice…it all depends on the day, cuz I’ll take either one.