Greg Olsen linked to Jim Nantz, CBS amid uncertain Fox future

The sports media landscape could see significant change heading into the 2027 NFL season.

Earlier this season CBS announced its plans to move on from Tony Romo, choosing instead to roll with former NFL star J.J. Watt alongside play-by-play man Jim Nantz. Meanwhile, longtime on-air teammates Joe Buck and Troy Aikman allegedly had an argument before a Week 5 “Monday Night Football” showdown between the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills.

The “Thursday Night Football” broadcast booth could also be in flux as Al Michaels sits in the final year of his contract. Prime Video recently signed Kirk Herbstreit to a new deal, but one that includes a potential out if someone like Rams head coach Sean McVay becomes available.

And then there’s Greg Olsen. The beloved color analyst who received critical acclaim for his broadcasts was swiftly demoted by Fox, which inked a lucrative deal with former NFL star quarterback Tom Brady.

Dec 15, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Former Panther and broadcaster Greg Olsen signs an autograph for a fan during pregame warmups between the Carolina Panthers and the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

Media insider Richard Deitsch revealed Olsen is in the final year of his contract with Fox and the two sides haven’t discussed a new deal.

The insider then linked Olsen to the CBS job after the two sides “had exploratory talks” two years ago and suggested he would be a “very attractive free agent” on the open media market.

The link to CBS makes sense as early reviews of Nantz’s partnership with Watt has already had its ups and downs for far this season. Olsen is among the few color analysts every fan seems to enjoy – rather than complain about – so a potential partnership with Nantz could make sense.

Aikman is also in the final year of his contract with ESPN, meaning the Worldwide Leader could make a run at the longtime NFL star tight end if he doesn’t return to Fox. Massive turnover in the sports media space would make for an interesting 2027 season, akin to watch star players like Green Bay Packers star pass rusher Micah Parsons and others change teams.