Nate Burleson Takes the Reins: Hosting NCAA Tournament Coverage
Former NFL wide receiver and current CBS personality Nate Burleson is adding another impressive feat to his already burgeoning career. CBS announced Thursday that Burleson will host the men’s NCAA Tournament coverage for both CBS Sports and TNT Sports, temporarily stepping in for the beloved Ernie Johnson for the first two weeks of the tournament. This exciting opportunity marks a significant return to his first sporting love: basketball.
A Lifelong Passion for Basketball
“It’s the first sport I fell in love with, the first sport I learned how to play,” Burleson shared during an appearance on “CBS Mornings.” He emphasized the deep-rooted connection his family has to the game, noting his brother’s coaching position in the NBA. “Basketball, the sport is near and dear to myself and my family, and I’ve been itching to contribute to basketball coverage under the CBS Sports umbrella, and finally I get to do that.”
Joining a Stellar Hosting Lineup
Burleson will join a formidable studio host group alongside Johnson, Adam Lefkoe, and Adam Zucker. He will share hosting duties with Zucker from CBS’s New York studios, while Lefkoe will be based in Atlanta. This dynamic team promises engaging and insightful coverage of the tournament’s early rounds.
Ernie Johnson’s Temporary Step Back
Ernie Johnson, a broadcasting icon, has decided to take a step back from hosting the initial rounds of the NCAA Tournament. However, fans can rejoice as he is slated to return to host the Final Four at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Burleson humbly acknowledged the opportunity, stating, “Of course, I’m ready. Shout out to Ernie — the legend. I’ll just be keeping his seat warm.”
Balancing Multiple Roles
CBS has yet to unveil the full details of its March Madness coverage plans for this year. Burleson, who has been a valued NFL analyst for the network since 2017 and currently co-hosts “CBS Mornings,” is expected to continue fulfilling his duties on the morning news program throughout the tournament, as reported by the Sports Business Journal. This demonstrates his ability to seamlessly juggle multiple high-profile roles.
From the NFL Field to the Broadcast Booth
Before his successful transition to media, Burleson enjoyed an 11-season career in the NFL, playing for the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Detroit Lions. Drafted 71st overall in the 2003 NFL Draft, he brought the same dedication and competitive spirit to the football field that he now brings to his broadcasting career. His experience as a professional athlete provides a unique perspective and credibility to his analysis.
This new role for Nate Burleson is a testament to his versatility and growing influence in the sports media landscape. Fans can look forward to his energetic and insightful contributions to CBS and TNT Sports’ NCAA Tournament coverage.
For more information on the NCAA Tournament, visit the official NCAA website.
