Jimmy Johnson Retires from Fox Sports After 31 Years \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Jimmy Johnson, the two-time Super Bowl-winning coach, has retired from Fox Sports after 31 years as an NFL analyst. The 81-year-old announced his decision on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, calling it an extremely difficult choice. Johnson was a founding member of Fox NFL Sunday and leaves behind a legacy both in broadcasting and football.
Jimmy Johnson’s Retirement: Quick Looks
- Fox Sports Departure – Johnson announced his retirement after 31 years as a Fox NFL analyst.
- Emotional Farewell – He called his time at Fox “the most fun” of his career.
- Legendary Coaching Career – Johnson won two Super Bowls with the Cowboys and a national championship with Miami.
- Impact on Fox NFL Sunday – He was a core member alongside Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, and Michael Strahan.
- CEO Eric Shanks’ Tribute – Fox Sports leaders praised Johnson for his charisma and football insight.
- A Storied Journey – Johnson began coaching in 1965 and became a TV icon after leaving the sidelines.
Deep Look
End of an Era: Johnson Steps Away from Broadcasting
After more than three decades as one of the most recognizable voices in football broadcasting, Jimmy Johnson has officially retired from Fox Sports. The 81-year-old Hall of Fame coach, who led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories and won a college football national championship with Miami, made the announcement Monday on The Herd with Colin Cowherd.
Despite his deep love for football and television, Johnson said the decision had been on his mind for several years.
“The most fun I ever had in my career, that’s counting Super Bowls and national championships, was at Fox Sports,” Johnson said. “But I’ve made an extremely difficult decision. I’ve been thinking about it for the last four or five years, and I’ve decided to retire from Fox. I’m going to miss it. I’m going to miss all the guys. I’ll see them occasionally. It’s been a great run.”
The announcement marks the end of a 31-year tenure with Fox, where Johnson became a staple on Fox NFL Sunday. His deep football knowledge, signature humor, and charismatic presence made him a fan favorite alongside Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, Michael Strahan, and Curt Menefee.
Fox Sports and Colleagues Reflect on Johnson’s Legacy
Johnson was an original member of Fox NFL Sunday when the show debuted in 1994, helping define sports television analysis for generations of fans.
Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks called Johnson’s retirement “bittersweet”, praising his contributions to the network’s success.
“Jimmy Johnson was there when Fox NFL Sunday first aired 31 years ago. He has been a cherished member of our Fox Sports family ever since. He inspired generations of football fans with his legendary swagger, unique insights, and signature humor.”
Terry Bradshaw, a longtime co-host and former quarterback whom Johnson coached at Louisiana Tech, also paid tribute.
“Jimmy and I go way back, and there’s nobody like him. He brought energy, knowledge, and a little bit of craziness to our show. He’ll be missed, but he’s earned this.”
A Coaching Career That Defined Football Success
Long before his legendary career in broadcasting, Jimmy Johnson was one of the most successful coaches in football history.
✔ Two Super Bowl Titles (1992, 1993) – Johnson rebuilt the Dallas Cowboys from the ground up, transforming them into an NFL dynasty. His strategic mind and intense leadership propelled Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin to greatness.
✔ Miami Hurricanes National Championship (1987) – Johnson dominated college football at the University of Miami, amassing a 52-9 record and cementing the Hurricanes as a powerhouse.
✔ Turnaround Expert – Before coaching in Miami, Johnson revitalized Oklahoma State’s football program and built a reputation for turning struggling teams into winners.
After five seasons with the Cowboys, Johnson left following a power struggle with team owner Jerry Jones, despite winning back-to-back Super Bowls. Three months later, he joined Fox as an NFL analyst but left in 1996 to coach the Miami Dolphins.
Johnson returned to Fox Sports in 2002, where he became one of the most respected and entertaining voices in the game.
How Johnson Changed the Game at Fox Sports
Johnson’s transition from coaching to broadcasting was seamless, bringing the same intensity and football IQ to the studio that he displayed on the sidelines.
His ability to break down complex strategies, combined with his larger-than-life personality, made him a key figure in Fox NFL Sunday’s dominance. The chemistry between Johnson, Bradshaw, and Long became a defining feature of NFL coverage.
Over the years, Johnson’s one-of-a-kind humor and deep football knowledge shaped Fox’s approach to sports analysis, blending entertainment with expert breakdowns.
The Decision to Step Away: Why Now?
Johnson hinted that his decision to retire was not sudden, but something he had considered for several years. At 81 years old, he is ready to slow down and enjoy life outside of football.
While he didn’t cite health reasons, Johnson has spoken openly about wanting to spend more time at his home in the Florida Keys, where he enjoys fishing and relaxing by the water.
“I’ll still be around. I’ll still see the guys, but it’s time,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s Place Among the Greatest
With his Hall of Fame induction in 2020, Johnson cemented his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.
Few coaches have won at every level, but Johnson’s ability to build championship teams and develop elite talent set him apart. His impact on football remains undeniable, both on the field and in the broadcast studio.
What’s Next for Fox NFL Sunday?
With Johnson stepping away, Fox Sports now faces the challenge of filling a major void on Fox NFL Sunday.
Fox has not yet announced his replacement, but several high-profile former coaches and players have been rumored as potential candidates. Some possibilities include:
✔ Sean Payton – The former Saints head coach, who has appeared as a guest analyst on Fox, could be a strong fit.
✔ Rob Gronkowski – The charismatic former tight end has become a rising media personality.
✔ Bill Cowher – Another Hall of Fame coach who has TV experience.
Regardless of who replaces him, Johnson’s departure marks the end of an era for Fox’s NFL coverage.
A Career to Remember: Johnson’s Impact on Football and Media
From leading the Cowboys to NFL glory to revolutionizing sports broadcasting, Jimmy Johnson leaves behind an unparalleled legacy.
✔ Super Bowl champion coach
✔ College football national champion
✔ Hall of Fame inductee
✔ 31-year broadcasting career
While fans will miss his signature insights and humor, Johnson’s contributions to football will continue to be felt for generations to come.
As he rides off into retirement, one thing is certain:
Jimmy Johnson’s influence on the game—both on and off the field—will never be forgotten.
Jimmy Johnson Retires
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