Last week at this time, former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan announced he was retiring officially from professional football.
This week, he’s joining a new team. An NFL broadcasting team.
CBS Sports has announced this morning that Ryan will join James Brown, Bate Burleson, Bill Cowher, and JJ Watt at the anchor desk for their NFL Today pre and post-game programming. Boomer Esiason and Phil Simms, longtime show co-hosts, will be leaving the program, according to the network. The changes start this fall.
He will be an analyst for some NFL On CBS games and provide analysis for The NFL Today, That Other Pregame Show, NFL Monday QB, and CBS Sports HQ, according to an official Paramount Global press release.
“Matt had an outstanding first year at CBS Sports, excelling as both a studio and game analyst, said David Berson, head of CBS Sports, 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.”
“I grew up watching The NFL Today so I’m honored to join this iconic show and hope to continue the high standard set by Phil, Boomer, and others before me,” said Ryan in a statement. “I am thankful for this exciting new opportunity and can’t wait to get started with my new teammates.”
After his departure from his last quarterback gig with the Indianapolis Colts, Ryan had been doing some color commentary and analysis for CBS Sports, including Super Bowl LVIII.
CBS NFL football programming is seen locally on WANF Channel 46. The Atlanta Falcons schedule (with potential Falcons games Ryan may be calling next season) has not yet been announced.