A New Chapter Unfolds: Kyle Brandt Bids Farewell to CBS's The NFL Today

Well, here’s some news that's sure to get the sports world buzzing: Kyle Brandt, a genuinely dynamic and engaging personality, is officially saying goodbye to CBS's The NFL Today. After gracing our screens for five memorable seasons, having first joined the team back in 2022, Brandt announced his departure this past Saturday, July 27, 2026. It truly feels like the end of an era for many viewers who appreciated his unique energy.

Brandt himself framed this move as "closing one chapter" while, quite excitingly, "opening a considerably larger one elsewhere." He made sure to extend a heartfelt thank you to CBS, specifically acknowledging the creative freedom they afforded him and the impressive production value behind his popular "One Shot / Many Takes" segment. You know, that's the kind of appreciative farewell you love to see, underscoring a positive relationship even as he moves on.

Now, the whispers about where Brandt might be heading are certainly getting louder. All signs point to him making a splash at ESPN, potentially contributing to several of their studio programs. There's a particular buzz, in fact, about him securing a recurring weekly spot on Get Up. This anticipated move, if it comes to fruition, would align perfectly with ESPN's broader strategy of bringing over familiar and well-loved NFL personalities, much like they've done with figures from the NFL Network in recent times.

Brandt’s exit, however, isn't happening in a vacuum; it’s just one piece of a rather significant shake-up at The NFL Today. We've already seen other prominent figures move on this offseason. Take Jonathan Jones, for example, who served as CBS's lead NFL insider. He recently wrapped up nearly seven years with the network before making the jump to The Athletic, where he's now a senior writer. That's a big loss for breaking news, no doubt.

And let's not forget Matt Ryan, the former NFL quarterback who brought his unique perspective as an analyst to The NFL Today. He too vacated his chair earlier this year, but for a fascinating reason: to take on a front-office position with the Atlanta Falcons. So, when you put it all together, The NFL Today panel is undergoing some serious changes, a true changing of the guard, if you will, ahead of the new season.

But fear not, football fans, it's not all goodbyes! CBS isn't just letting talent walk out the door; they’re also bringing in some exciting new blood. The iconic panel will now welcome none other than quarterback Russell Wilson and former NFL offensive lineman Kyle Long to the fold. Their insights and experiences are sure to add fresh dimensions to the Sunday pre-game discussions, offering a different flavor to the analysis.

So, as the new NFL season approaches, the familiar faces of Nate Burleson, Bill Cowher, and, of course, the legendary host James Brown will continue to anchor the show. But with Brandt, Jones, and Ryan moving on, and Wilson and Long stepping in, viewers can certainly expect a revamped and re-energized The NFL Today. It’s going to be interesting to see how these new dynamics play out when the broadcasts kick off!