Legendary football analyst Jimmy Johnson has officially stepped away from his role on Fox NFL Sunday, leaving a significant vacancy on the network’s flagship pregame show.
The 81-year-old, who had been a fixture on the program for decades, first hinted at retirement during the Super Bowl broadcast, where he became visibly emotional following a tribute to his career.
Johnson later confirmed his departure during an appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, making it clear that his time as an NFL analyst had come to an end. With his exit, Fox is now faced with the challenge of finding a suitable replacement before the 2025 NFL season kicks off.
While no official announcement has been made, several prominent figures have emerged as potential candidates to take his spot on the panel. Here are some of the most likely options.
The top candidates to replace Johnson
1. Rob Gronkowski – The In-House Favorite
A natural choice for the role could be Rob Gronkowski, who already has a presence on Fox NFL Sunday, though in a more limited capacity. Unlike his fellow analysts, Gronk’s appearances are sporadic, and he hasn’t been a full-time panelist.
Given his charisma, humor, and deep football knowledge, Fox could look to expand Gronkowski’s role and make him a permanent fixture on the show. With no other broadcasting commitments, stepping into Johnson’s seat would be a seamless transition for the former New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers star.
2. Stephen A. Smith – The Wild Card Pick
A potential curveball in the selection process could be Stephen A. Smith, one of the most recognizable voices in sports media. Smith’s show First Take remains one of the most-watched programs on ESPN, and his polarizing style draws millions of viewers.
While Smith’s outspoken personality doesn’t necessarily align with the more lighthearted tone of Fox NFL Sunday, the network could make a bold move by offering him a lucrative deal. With his ESPN contract up in the air, Fox might have an opportunity to lure him away and bring his fiery takes to their NFL coverage.
3. Michael Irvin – The Familiar Face
A former NFL star and a current member of the Fox family, Michael Irvin is another strong candidate for the role. Irvin is already involved in Fox’s sports programming, frequently appearing on Speak alongside Joy Taylor and Paul Pierce.
His history as a Hall of Fame wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, combined with his passionate and energetic delivery, could make him a natural successor to Johnson. Additionally, his familiarity with the Fox production team and audience would make for an easy transition.
4. Aaron Rodgers – A High-Profile Option
If Aaron Rodgers decides to retire, he would be an immediate top target for sports networks looking to bolster their lineup. The four-time MVP has a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of the game, and a calm yet insightful approach to football discussions.
However, Rodgers’ off-field controversies and outspoken personality could make Fox hesitant to bring him on board. Additionally, his future in the NFL remains uncertain, making it unclear if he would even be available for the 2025 season.
Who will ultimately land the role?
Fox has plenty of options when it comes to replacing Jimmy Johnson, with choices ranging from experienced analysts to current NFL stars waiting for their next chapter. Rob Gronkowski seems like the most logical choice given his existing relationship with the network, while Michael Irvin would provide a seamless transition.
However, if Fox wants to make a bold move, Stephen A. Smith or even Aaron Rodgers could be game-changing additions. With the 2025 NFL season approaching, fans won’t have to wait long to see who steps into the legendary analyst’s shoes.
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