Some football fans aren't thrilled with the idea of Nate Burleson receiving a promotion from CBS.
Burleson, a former NFL wide receiver who had 5,630 career receiving yards, joined CBS Sports as a studio analyst in 2017. In addition to playing a pivotal role on "The NFL Today," the two-time Sports Emmy Award winner has been the co-host of "CBS Mornings" since September 2021.
Although nothing is set in stone at this time, Burleson wants to eventually host "The NFL Today."
That being said, Burleson is willing to wait until James Brown retires as the host of "The NFL Today." He has no interest in pushing the longtime CBS host out the door.
"I want James Brown around for as long as I can have him," Burleson told Front Office Sports. "I have learned so much, I wouldn’t be the person I am on-camera if it wasn’t for J.B. So, selfishly, I want to keep learning from one of the greatest to ever do it. And I don’t want a call from anybody else if I ever get that seat. I want J.B. to call me."
© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.
After Burleson's interview with Front Office Sports was published, countless NFL fans aired out their complaints on social media.
"Oh God please no," an NFL fan commented. "I already don’t watch the NFL on CBS because of him, his ridiculous outfits and his outlandish takes. It’s like CBS is purposely driving me to FOX/NFL Network."
"Suffered through March Madness with him as host," a second fan said. "This would suck."
"Yeah that would be a no from me," another fan replied.
"Will definitely not watch it if Burleson replaces JB," another NFL fan added.
CBS has been training Burleson for this opportunity.
Earlier this year, Burleson filled in for Ernie Johnson as the host for CBS and TNT's coverage of the NCAA Tournament. According to Ryan Glasspiegel of Front Office Sports, that opportunity was basically a test for the former NFL star.
“Have seen a few people asking why Nate Burleson is CBS March Madness studio host. Ernie Johnson asked to step back from some of the dates in the role,” Glasspiegel said. “CBS is testing to see if Burleson could eventually replace James Brown as NFL Today host.”
Only time will tell if CBS has enough belief in Burleson to make him the full-time host of "The NFL Today."
