By Oshadhi Gimesha, Lead Journalist | Editor-in-Chief Approved
Hall of Fame Coach Leaves “Fox NFL Sunday” After a Storied Broadcasting Career
NFL legend Jimmy Johnson, a Pro Football Hall of Fame coach, announced his retirement from Fox Sports on Monday, March 3, 2025, ending a 31-year run as a beloved analyst on “Fox NFL Sunday.” At 81, Johnson shared the decision during an appearance on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” reflecting on a career that spanned two Super Bowl wins, a national college championship, and decades of football insights. His departure marks the end of an era for the network’s top pregame show, leaving fans and colleagues reflecting on his iconic swagger and unmatched energy.
Key Points:
- Retirement Announcement: Jimmy Johnson, 81, announced his retirement from Fox Sports on March 3, 2025, after 31 years as an NFL analyst on “Fox NFL Sunday.”
- Coaching Legacy: Johnson won two Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys (1992, 1993) and a national championship with the University of Miami (1987), cementing his status as a football icon.
- Broadcasting Impact: Known for his humor, insight, and camaraderie with Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, and others, Johnson helped make “Fox NFL Sunday” the top NFL pregame show since 1994.
A Legendary Exit
Jimmy Johnson, now 81, stepped away from broadcasting on March 3, 2025, after more than three decades with Fox Sports, where he became a fixture on “Fox NFL Sunday.” During his Monday appearance on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” Johnson said, “The most fun I ever had in my career—that’s counting Super Bowls and national championships—was at Fox Sports. I have an absolute ball with my friends on the set; the best friends I’ve ever had there with Fox.” He added, “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 starting 31 years ago.”
Johnson’s retirement follows a tearful moment during Fox’s Super Bowl LIX pregame show in February 2025, where a tribute hinted at his potential departure, but he clarified it wasn’t formal until now. His broadcasting career began in 1994, shortly after leaving the Dallas Cowboys, where he coached the team to back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1992 and 1993. He rejoined Fox in 2002 after a four-year stint coaching the Miami Dolphins, making him one of the original members of “Fox NFL Sunday” alongside Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long, who’ve been on the show since its debut.
The establishment narrative—celebrating Johnson’s retirement as a natural end to a legendary career—may oversimplify its impact. His departure leaves a gap in “Fox NFL Sunday,” now hosted by Curt Menefee and featuring analysts like Michael Strahan and Rob Gronkowski, per recent network updates. While Fox CEO Eric Shanks praised Johnson’s “legendary swagger, one-of-a-kind insight, and signature humor,” the show’s future without his coaching perspective and chemistry with Bradshaw and Long raises questions. Johnson’s coaching record—80-64 in the NFL, 9-4 postseason, and 52-9 at Miami—adds depth, but his broadcasting legacy, spanning 31 years, is equally iconic, driving “Fox NFL Sunday” to the top pregame slot, per industry data.
Jimmy Johnson through the years.
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) March 3, 2025
Congrats on an incredible career and enjoy retirement, Coach. @JimmyJohnson x @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/qkldpVPxgS
A Coaching and Broadcasting Legacy
Johnson’s football journey began as a defensive lineman at the University of Arkansas, winning a national title in 1964. He coached at Oklahoma State (1979–1983), then led Miami to a national championship in 1987, before joining the Cowboys in 1989. With quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and receiver Michael Irvin, he built a dynasty, winning Super Bowls XXVII and XXVIII. After leaving the Cowboys in 1994, he coached the Dolphins from 1996–1999, posting a 36-28 record and three playoff berths before returning to Fox.
At Fox, Johnson’s wit, analysis, and pep talks made him a fan favorite, contributing to “Fox NFL Sunday” being inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2019. His retirement, announced just hours ago, leaves Fox searching for a replacement, with no immediate plans disclosed per network statements. Johnson’s net worth, estimated at $45 million, reflects his success, but his focus now shifts to personal interests, per recent reports on his career transition.
Critically, the narrative of Johnson as a seamless transition from coach to broadcaster may understate the challenges of leaving such a long-tenured role. His exit could shift “Fox NFL Sunday” dynamics, but his legacy—two Super Bowls, a national title, and 31 years of sharp commentary—ensures his impact endures, per sports industry analyses.
What’s Next for “Fox NFL Sunday”?
Johnson’s retirement marks a turning point for Fox’s NFL coverage, with the network likely seeking a new analyst to maintain its pregame dominance. Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long remain the only original members, but Johnson’s unique voice and coaching insight will be missed, per industry observers. Fox has yet to announce a replacement, but the show’s success, built on this trio’s chemistry, faces adjustment in the 2025 season.
Conclusion: A Legend Steps Away
Jimmy Johnson’s retirement from Fox Sports after 31 years closes a remarkable chapter in NFL broadcasting. As fans and colleagues celebrate his legacy, News Zier will update you on Fox NFL Sunday’s next steps and Johnson’s post-retirement journey.
Further Insights:
- Explore more on NFL trends and sports media shifts with News Zier.
- Stay tuned for updates on Jimmy Johnson’s legacy and Fox’s NFL coverage.
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