“Shocking CBS Move: Is an ESPN Star Poised to Take Over Gary Danielson’s Iconic Role?”

As college football gears up for another exciting season, a monumental shift is on the horizon. With Gary Danielson announcing his retirement after this upcoming year, fans and analysts are left wondering: who can fill the shoes of such a legendary commentator? The answer appears to be Charles Davis, who is set to step into Danielson’s role starting in 2026. But wait, before we get too comfortable with that news, there’s a twist—rumors swirled that CBS had their sights on ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky, a beloved figure for his insight into the game. Yet, in a surprising turn of events, Orlovsky decided to stay put. So, what gives? Is he weighing his options with ESPN, or is CBS just not making the cut? The sports world is buzzing with speculation, and this could potentially reshape the landscape of college football commentary. Curious to find out more? LEARN MORE.

Gary Danielson and Brad Nessler have been a couple of the most recognizable voices in college football for a while now. But with Danielson announcing his retirement after the upcoming season, CBS was forced to make changes.

Charles Davis will reportedly slide into Danielson’s seat on Saturdays starting in 2026, and in the meantime he’ll call his final NFL season on the network’s second team behind Ian Eagle and future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt.

That wasn’t what the original plan was though, per The Athletic. As CBS reportedly targeted ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky — whose future remains uncertain at ESPN.

According to sports media insider Andrew Marchand, Orlovsky turned down CBS’ offer as he continues to do some offseason work under the ESPN/ABC umbrella.

Orlovsky has become something of a star at the Worldwide leader for his ability to break down X’s and O’s from the eyes of the quarterback position. However it remains to be seen if the company will commit to him with a lucrative new contract.

The former NFL QB has worked on the network’s B-team for pro games and also been on the call for some of its CFB action as well.

At this moment it isn’t clear why he decided to turn CBS down. But it’s hard to imagine their offer will be the last he receives before the start of football season.

ESPN recently retained both Stephen A. Smith and Rece Davis, who were up for new contracts, and Orlovsky likely sees the kind of money Disney is doling out to its other on-air talent.

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