Fox NFL Sunday will be missing a familiar face this Week 11, as the legendary Jimmy Johnson has been given a week off from the popular pregame show. At 81 years old, Johnson is an icon in the world of football, known for his coaching prowess and charismatic presence on television. Fans will certainly feel his absence as they tune in to catch the latest NFL action.
This week, Fox announced the NFL assignments for Week 11, revealing that Johnson would not be part of the lineup. The decision comes after he joined the entire crew for a special show last weekend, which was broadcast live from the Naval Base San Diego. This two-hour edition of Fox NFL Sunday served as a tribute to the military, coinciding with Veterans Day, and featured a live audience of military members.
During that memorable show, Johnson had a light-hearted moment with fellow host Terry Bradshaw. The former Steelers quarterback made a humorous observation about the presence of Rob Gronkowski sitting next to Johnson. “It’s going to be a great day. It’s good to have Gronk up here,” Bradshaw remarked, adding, “We never have Jimmy and Gronk together, so it’s nice to introduce them.” Gronkowski, ever the entertainer, responded with his signature enthusiasm, declaring, “The band is back together, baby!”
As the cameras panned to the audience, one member proudly displayed a Dallas Cowboys tattoo, prompting host Curt Menefee to joke about the fan’s potential regrets over the ink, given the Cowboys’ recent struggles. Johnson, who famously led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories in the 1990s, playfully encouraged the fan to “hold onto that tattoo; it will be okay in a couple of years.” However, his fellow co-host Michael Strahan couldn’t resist chiming in with a jab, laughing, “You’ve been saying that for the last 20 years!”
The Cowboys have not tasted Super Bowl glory since 1995, a fact that looms large over the franchise and its fans. Johnson’s legacy as a coach is undeniable, but the team’s current drought has become a running theme in discussions about the franchise’s future. With Strahan, who spent his entire career with the rival New York Giants, the banter between the two highlights the friendly rivalry that exists within the NFL.
In addition to Johnson’s absence, Fox’s NFL coverage for the 2024 season is undergoing significant changes. The arrival of Tom Brady to Fox’s top NFL announce team alongside Kevin Burkhardt has triggered a domino effect, resulting in new broadcast pairings across the network. This shake-up means fans will see entirely new combinations of commentators, adding an exciting twist to the viewing experience.
The new pairings for Fox’s NFL coverage in 2024 include:
- Greg Olsen with Joe Davis as the No. 2 announce team
- Adam Amin paired with Mark Sanchez
- Kenny Albert teaming up with Jon Vilma
- Kevin Kugler alongside Daryl Johnston
- Chris Myers with Mark Schlereth
These changes promise to bring fresh perspectives and dynamics to the broadcasts, keeping fans engaged and entertained throughout the season.
As for Johnson, his contributions to the sport and the network are immeasurable. His vibrant personality and deep knowledge of the game have made him a beloved figure among fans and colleagues alike. While he takes this week off, viewers can look forward to his return, where he will undoubtedly bring his trademark energy and insights back to the show.
In the world of the NFL, every week brings new stories, rivalries, and moments that capture the hearts of fans. Johnson’s absence may be felt, but the excitement of the game continues unabated. With the season heating up and playoff aspirations on the line, there’s no shortage of drama and intrigue to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
As we look ahead to the upcoming games, one thing is certain: the NFL never fails to deliver thrilling action and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s the fierce competition on the field or the camaraderie among the analysts, the passion for football remains as strong as ever. So, while we may miss Jimmy Johnson this Sunday, the spirit of the game will undoubtedly shine through, captivating audiences across the nation.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as we continue to follow the NFL season and all its twists and turns!
