J.J. Watt’s CBS booth debut draws attention for new ‘feathered’ hairstyle as broadcast receives praise
Former NFL defensive star made his first appearance alongside Ian Eagle, prompting social-media reaction to both his commentary and his look
J.J. Watt drew as much attention for his hairstyle as for his broadcasting during his CBS booth debut Sunday, appearing alongside play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle for the New York Jets’ home opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The 36-year-old former defensive end sported a noticeably “feathered” look that prompted brisk reaction on X, where users compared the cut to 1990s boy-band styles and praised Watt’s appearance. The broadcast itself earned positive notices, with viewers applauding his transition to the booth and his on-air presence.
Watt, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, joined CBS Sports in 2023 after ending a 12-year NFL playing career. He spent the first 10 seasons with the Houston Texans, who selected him 11th overall in the 2011 draft, and finished his career with two seasons for the Arizona Cardinals. CBS announced in March that Watt would move from studio work on The NFL Today to the broadcast 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,” Watt said in a statement when the network announced the move. “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.”
Watt’s debut came against a backdrop that included family ties: his younger brother, Pittsburgh linebacker T.J. Watt, was in the contest. The Steelers trailed the Jets 17-19 at halftime.
Social media responses to Watt’s hair and broadcast presence varied. One X user wrote, “90’s boy-band ahh haircut,” while another posted, “Looking Handsome as hell.” Some viewers focused on his commentary, with one user saying, “JJ Watt is doing a fantastic job,” and another adding, “JJ Watt is a great announcer.” A smaller contingent expressed dissatisfaction with the hairstyle.
Watt’s move to the booth continues a trend of recently retired players shifting into media roles. He initially joined CBS as an analyst in the studio, offering game-breakdown segments and commentary. CBS paired him with Eagle for Sunday’s telecast, entrusting the former defender with play insight and on-air chemistry during a live game.
Observers noted Watt’s ability to translate on-field experience into broadcast analysis, often highlighting technique and scheme in concise segments. His familiarity with the modern NFL and his profile as a former star added a level of recognition that augmented the network’s presentation.
Watt’s appearance and performance will likely be watched closely by both fans and broadcast executives as networks continue to evaluate former players’ fit in prominent on-air roles. For Sunday, the notable haircut became a secondary storyline to his effective transition from player to analyst as the game progressed.