JJ Watt getting rave reviews for CBS booth debut – and fans are loving his bold new look

The new NFL season has sparked a new look for J.J. Watt.

The former NFL star turned CBS Sports broadcaster made his debut in the commentary booth during the New York Jets’ season-opening loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.

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Watt’s commentary career got off to a good start as he and veteran play-by-play caller Ian Eagle drew praise for their chemistry and announcing.

“JJ Watt is doing a fantastic job,” one fan posted on X.

“JJ Watt is a great announcer,” another wrote.

Watt appearing on CBS is nothing new, as the 36-year-old joined the broadcaster in 2023 after he retired following 12 seasons in the NFL.

However, what is new is his role at CBS.

After serving as a studio analyst for the first two years, CBS announced in March that he was being shifted to the booth for the 2025 season.

“There is nothing better than the energy and excitement of being in the stadium on game day in the NFL,” he said in a statement at the time.

“I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to return to that atmosphere each week, working with one of the best in Ian.

“While I certainly miss delivering hits on the field, it will be nice to leave the stadium without taking any, unless Ian decides to try something crazy.”

J.J. Watt’s booth debut comes with a debut look

Among all the praise for his commentating ability, Watt also sparked a discussion after he appeared on screen with a new look.

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The former Texans defender has gone from his famous crew cut look to what CBS described as a “feathered and lethal” trim.

“Fantastic hair choice JJ Watt,” one fan lauded online.

“Looking Handsome as hell,” another wrote.

While one fan said, “Not a fan of the hair.”

Watt, whose first game on commentary included his younger brother T.J. Watt of the Steelers, spent ten years of his stellar career with the Houston Texans.

During that time, he had 114.5 sacks and won Defensive Player of the Year three times.

He then spent the last two years of his career with the Arizona Cardinals.

Alongside being a CBS employee, Watt is also the minority owner of soccer clubs Burnley F.C. and RCD Espanyol.

Watt has regularly been seen at Espanyol and Burnley games.

He famously went viral for widely celebrating a Burnley goal last season.

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