Legendary football figure Jimmy Johnson has declared his retirement.
After 31 memorable years with Fox Sports, Johnson made his retirement announcement on FS1’s “The Herd” with Colin Cowherd, closing a significant chapter in sports broadcasting, the New York Post reported.
Jimmy Johnson, having contributed extensively both as a coach and broadcaster, expressed his departure from Fox Sports as one of the toughest decisions of his life, a thought process spanning nearly half a decade. Fox Sports acknowledged his resignation will leave a considerable void within the team and the network at large.
The decision, announced on a popular sports talk show, was not entirely unforeseen, especially following Johnson's emotional appearance during Super Bowl 2025. Colin Cowherd, host of “The Herd,” hinted at Johnson's possible retirement due to the poignant moment witnessed during the game.
Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks shared that Jimmy Johnson's style and energy not only encouraged but also entertained millions of football fans. His unique blend of direct insight and humor marked a significant era for Fox Sports.
Eric Shanks highlighted one of the unforgettable moments when he informed Johnson live on air about his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This gesture demonstrated the high esteem the network holds for him.
Johnson, reminiscing about his past, mentioned his journey with Fox Sports had been the highlight of his professional tenure.
Eric Shanks detailed the influence Johnson had on the team:
Jimmy served as an inspiration to generations of football fans with his legendary swagger, one-of-a-kind insight and signature humor. From his motivating pep talks to his unmatched energy over the years, he was our coach who always pushed us to be better. We’re incredibly grateful for his contributions in making FOX NFL SUNDAY the top pregame show on TV, where we shared countless memorable moments, highlighted by surprising him live on-air with the news he was being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame — an occasion we will never forget. Coach will be sincerely missed, and we wish him the best as he sets sail into retirement, like only Jimmy Johnson can.
Jimmy Johnson initially began his prominent coaching career at Oklahoma State in 1979, then moved to the University of Miami where he secured a national championship in 1987.
He later took helm of the Dallas Cowboys, leading them to back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1993 and 1994. His departure from the Cowboys followed a well-publicized disagreement with owner Jerry Jones, a conflict that only saw resolution in 2023 when Johnson was honored in the Cowboys’ "Ring of Honor."
Throughout Johnson’s broadcasting stint, Fox Sports saw several other greats join the ranks including Michael Strahan and Rob Gronkowski, each adding their own flavor to “Fox NFL Sunday,” originally launched with Johnson among its founding panel in 1994.
Reflecting on his career, Johnson described his ongoing association with Fox Sports as unmatched, acknowledging the deep relationships and joy he found working alongside his colleagues on set.
In conclusion, Jimmy Johnson’s departure from Fox Sports marks the end of an impactful and diverse career spanning coaching victories and broadcasting achievements. Colleagues and viewers alike will remember his legacy at Fox for its insightful commentary and heartfelt moments as he transitions into retirement. Johnson’s multifaceted contributions to the world of football have indeed capped a monumental era in sports history.
