Jimmy Johnson Retires from Fox Sports After 31 Years: A Legendary Career Comes to a Close

Jimmy Johnson—Hall of Fame coach, master strategist, and one of the most influential voices in football—has officially stepped away from his role as an analyst at Fox Sports after an extraordinary 31-year tenure. The 81-year-old icon, whose presence shaped "Fox NFL Sunday" into one of the most-watched sports pregame shows, leaves behind a lasting impact on both the gridiron and the broadcast booth.

From the Sidelines to the Spotlight: Johnson’s Storied Journey

Johnson’s football journey is the stuff of legend. A coach who lived and breathed the game, he started his career in 1965, eventually taking the University of Miami to national championship glory in 1987. But it was in the NFL where he truly became a household name.

When he took over as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, the franchise was in disarray. In just four seasons, Johnson turned them into an unstoppable force, engineering back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1992 and 1993. His ability to evaluate talent, build championship rosters, and implement aggressive schemes made him one of the most respected coaches in league history.

After stepping away from coaching, Johnson found a second calling in sports broadcasting. In 1994, he joined Fox Sports, becoming a cornerstone of Fox NFL Sunday. His combination of sharp analysis, bold opinions, and charismatic delivery made him a fan favorite. Alongside Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long, he helped elevate the show into a must-watch event every football Sunday.

His ability to break down the game’s complexities into engaging, digestible insights set him apart. Johnson didn’t just analyze football—he brought it to life, blending storytelling with strategy in a way that resonated with fans and players alike.

On March 3, 2025, Johnson made his retirement official during an appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. His words carried the weight of decades of dedication:

"The most fun I ever had in my career—counting Super Bowls and national championships—was at Fox Sports."

Despite the deep bond he shared with his colleagues and the network, Johnson acknowledged that the time had come to step away. His departure marks the end of an era for Fox Sports, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and authenticity.

Following his announcement, tributes flooded in from across the NFL and sports media. Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks praised Johnson’s ability to captivate audiences, calling him a pioneer who “served as an inspiration to generations of football fans with his legendary swagger, one-of-a-kind insight, and signature humor.”

Fellow broadcaster Terry Bradshaw, a longtime friend and co-host, reflected on their time together, saying:

“Jimmy’s knowledge and personality made the show what it is today. He’s irreplaceable.”

Fans echoed these sentiments, celebrating Johnson’s unparalleled contributions to the game and the broadcast world. Whether through his iconic "How 'Bout Them Cowboys?" exclamation or his incisive game-day breakdowns, Johnson left an unforgettable mark on football culture.

While stepping away from television, Johnson remains a larger-than-life figure in football. His influence will continue to shape the sport—whether through mentorship, personal ventures, or his well-earned place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Beyond football, Johnson has long enjoyed a passion for deep-sea fishing and life in the Florida Keys. With his retirement, he finally has the chance to embrace a quieter lifestyle—though given his relentless energy, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him pop up in the football world from time to time.

Jimmy Johnson’s retirement isn’t just the closing of a chapter—it’s the final brushstroke on a masterpiece of a career. From revolutionizing the Cowboys to redefining sports broadcasting, his influence stretches far beyond the sideline or the studio.

The game may move forward, but Johnson’s voice, wisdom, and unmistakable presence will forever echo in the halls of football history.