After more than three decades as a beloved analyst on Fox NFL Sunday, Jimmy Johnson has announced his retirement from the role. The 81-year-old made the announcement on The Herd With Colin Cowherd, describing the decision as "extremely difficult" and one he had been contemplating for the past four to five years. Johnson reflected on his time at Fox Sports with immense gratitude, calling it the "most fun" he’s ever had in his career—a statement that includes his Super Bowl and national championship victories. He expressed that he will deeply miss his colleagues, who he referred to as his "best friends," but looks forward to occasionally crossing paths with them. While Fox NFL has yet to comment on who might replace Johnson, the legacy he leaves behind is undeniable, and his retirement marks the end of an era for the program.
Jimmy Johnson’s journey in football began long before his days on television. A standout defensive lineman at the University of Arkansas, Johnson was part of the Razorbacks’ 1964 national championship team. His performance earned him a spot on the school’s all-decade team for the 1960s, and he was inducted into the University of Arkansas Hall of Fame in 1999. After his playing career, Johnson transitioned to coaching, starting as the head coach at Oklahoma State from 1979 to 1983. His success there led him to the University of Miami, where he guided the Hurricanes to a national championship in 1987. Johnson’s coaching career reached new heights when he became the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, a job he took under team owner Jerry Jones, a former teammate from his Arkansas days.
During his time with the Cowboys, Johnson cemented his place in NFL history. After defeating the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game on January 17, 1993, Johnson famously greeted his players with the now-iconic phrase, "How ’bout them Cowboys?" a moment that became etched in franchise lore. Under his leadership, the Cowboys won back-to-back Super Bowls—XXVII and XXVIII—solidifying Johnson’s status as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history. However, his tenure with the Cowboys ended in 1994 after a falling out with Jones, despite their shared success.
Following his departure from the Cowboys, Johnson joined Fox Sports as one of the original analysts on Fox NFL Sunday in 1994, alongside Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long. His charisma, football expertise, and signature humor quickly made him a fan favorite. Johnson briefly left the show in 1996 to coach the Miami Dolphins, but returned to Fox NFL Sunday in 2002, where he remained a mainstay for the next two decades. His ability to connect with audiences and provide insightful analysis made him a beloved figure in the world of sports broadcasting.
The news of Johnson’s retirement has been met with a mix of sadness and celebration, as fans and colleagues alike reflect on his incredible career. Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks called Johnson a "cherished member of our Fox Sports family" and praised his "legendary swagger" and "one-of-a-kind insights." Shanks emphasized that Johnson’s retirement is bittersweet, as he has been a cornerstone of the program since its inception 31 years ago. Michael Strahan, who has shared the Fox NFL Sunday set with Johnson since 2008, also paid tribute, writing that it had been "17 seasons of fun and laughs" sitting next to Johnson and calling him "one of a kind." Strahan expressed gratitude for their friendship and wished Johnson well in retirement, hoping he enjoys fishing and relaxing on his boat.
Jimmy Johnson’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in football and sports media. From his early days as a player and coach to his long-standing role as a television analyst, Johnson has left an indelible mark on the sport. His retirement is not just a personal milestone but a moment for fans to reflect on the legacy of a man who brought passion, expertise, and joy to football audiences for decades. As he moves on to new adventures—likely involving fishing and time with friends and family—Johnson’s contributions to both the NFL and sports broadcasting will remain unforgettable.
