Matt Ryan, the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback, has joined CBS Sports as a studio analyst on “The NFL Today”. This announcement comes after Ryan’s retirement from a 15-year NFL career, during which he played for the Falcons and the Indianapolis Colts. He joins James Brown, Nate Burleson, Bill Cowher, and JJ Watt, replacing long-time analysts Phil Simms and Boomer Esiason who have departed the network. CBS Sports president and CEO David Berson expressed excitement about Ryan’s addition, noting his vital experience and statistical achievements which place him in the top 10 in NFL history for passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and attempts.

Phil Simms, part of CBS since 1998, transitioned from lead game analyst to studio pundit in 2016 and expressed his gratitude for his 26-year tenure with CBS on social media. Boomer Esiason, who spent 22 years on “The NFL Today”, will continue his engagement with a New York sports talk radio show simulcast on CBS Sports Network. Both analysts were recognized by David Berson for setting a high standard of NFL coverage excellence. This move marks a significant change under Berson’s leadership following his appointment after the retirement of former chairman Sean McManus.

In related developments, Jason Kelce, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles, is set to join ESPN’s “Monday Night Countdown” following his retirement. Kelce, who also participated in the NFL Broadcasting and Media Workshop, will take over from Robert Griffin III, who will become a college football analyst on ESPN. Kelce will join existing ESPN team members including Scott Van Pelt, Marcus Spears, and Ryan Clark. He also plans to continue his “New Heights” podcast with his brother, Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs.