Russell Wilson to TV? Why QB may pivot to television career instead signing with NFL team

After being under center for six games as a New York Giant in 2026, it looks like Russell Wilson may be hanging up his cleats to join the broadcast team. 

This wouldn't mark the first time Wilson got a stint on TV, as he was praised for his efforts after an appearance in 2025. Wilson spent much of his career as a hot commodity for teams that needed an NFL QB. Now, at 37, Wilson is an equally hot commodity, but for those who need a former NFL QB to talk football at a high level.

Per Andrew Marchand of The Athletic, several organizations are vying for Wilson, with CBS's "The NFL Today" pregame show as the leading candidate for his services. Wilson previously appeared on the show during a bye week.

Here is everything to know about where Russell Wilson could take his talents as an analyst.

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Is Russell Wilson going into TV?

At this time, nothing is currently set in stone. According to Marchand's reporting, however, CBS is currently the favorite. Still, they'll have to sway Wilson from another season on the gridiron.

In January, Matt Ryan left "The NFL Today" to take a job as the Atlanta Falcons' President of Football. This leaves a job opening available for CBS to fill and Wilson appears to be their prime candidate for the job. 

According to Marchand's sources, Hall of Famer Luke Kuechly also appears to be an option for CBS. With Wilson potentially receiving NFL offers, the benefit for Kuechly is that he is six years removed from an NFL career. He also brings radio experience as an analyst for the Carolina Panthers.

This news comes on the back of major TV networks vying for top talent this offseason. With NBC securing the skills of former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, CBS will try to raise them with a former Steelers quarterback.

MORE: Giants free agency tracker following Russell Wilson's departure

Russell Wilson TV broadcast career

During a Week 14 bye in 2025, Wilson joined "The NFL Today" with CBS as a guest analyst, discussing the week's matchups, including for his former team, the Denver Broncos. 

After this appearance, Matt Ryan called Wilson a "natural" in an interview with NFL Network.

From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: Matt Ryan joins the show to make sure that Philip Rivers wasn't the only 40-something former #Colts QB we're focusing on. We wondered... when was the last time a team called him (and other stuff). pic.twitter.com/QvQvNwaEfh

This appearance while Russell was still an active player was a great showcase for many executives about the potential that Wilson could have as a member of the pregame crew. Whether it's with an NFL team or a broadcast crew, it's clear that Russell Wilson is still in demand at 37 years old.

MORE: Why Mike Tomlin is joining NBC's 'Sunday Night Football' coverage