“CBS Sports Reveals Surprising Choice to Succeed Gary Danielson in 2026 – Fans are Buzzing!”

As the anticipation for the 2025 college football season builds, there’s a bittersweet note resonating across the ranks of fans and analysts alike. That’s because this will mark the final chapter for Gary Danielson in the CBS Sports booth—a voice that has been synonymous with college football since 2006. But what makes a broadcaster truly great? Is it their knack for trivia, their knack of coining infamous catchphrases, or the way they can paint a picture with words while fans are on the edge of their seats? Danielson has certainly checked all those boxes and then some, becoming the longest-tenured analyst in the game. As he prepares to pass the mic to Charles Davis, who’s poised to step into this pivotal role, we’re not just looking forward to exciting games in some of the most intimidating stadiums in college football; we’re also saying goodbye to a legendary presence. Join me as we delve into Danielson’s storied career and the future of CBS Sports college football coverage. LEARN MORE.

The 2025 college football season will be Gary Danielson’s last in the booth for CBS Sports.

He has been the lead color commentator for college football on CBS since 2006 but will call it quits once the 2025 season ends. He’s the longest-tenured college football analyst on any network. 

While he’s sad about retiring after the season, he confirmed in a statement that he has had the time of his life being a broadcaster.

“I have had the greatest seat in the house for 36 years and have loved every minute of it,” Danielson said in a statement. “I have discussed the timing of this moment with CBS Sports leadership over the past few years and we felt it was important I remained with the team during our transition to the Big Ten. As we enter our second full season of Big Ten football and my 20th at CBS Sports, the timing just feels right.”

“I have so much respect for Charles Davis as both a person and an analyst. He is going to shine in this role and fit so well with this team. I have been blessed to work with incredible teammates throughout my career and I look forward to one more memorable season with Brad, Jenny, Craig Silver, Steve Milton, and the crew.”

Charles Davis will take over for Danielson starting in 2026. He will be alongside Brad Nessler, who does play-by-play for CBS during each college football season.

Davis has been on the No. 2 team for CBS during each NFL season with Ian Eagle since 2020. J.J. Watt will partner with Eagle for the 2025 NFL season but Davis will still work as an analyst in some capacity for the network.

The 2025 college football season will start in late August.

Related: CBS Announces Decision On College Football Announcer Gary Danielson