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Donte Moncrief Joins CBS Sports for March Madness

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 14:27 GMT by NJ.com
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Thursday, February 19th, 2026 - Former NFL wide receiver Donte Moncrief is embarking on a new career path, trading in his helmet and shoulder pads for a headset and microphone. CBS Sports announced today that Moncrief will be joining its broadcast team as a color commentator for the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, more popularly known as March Madness. The move signals a growing trend of athletes transitioning into broadcasting roles, leveraging their firsthand experience and analytical skills to enhance the viewing experience.

Moncrief, a veteran of eight NFL seasons, was initially drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2015. He quickly established himself as a reliable target, demonstrating a knack for making difficult catches and contributing to the Colts' offensive attack. He spent the first four years of his professional career in Indianapolis, becoming a fan favorite for his consistent performance and engaging personality. His time with the Colts (2015-2018) saw him develop into a key player, and set the stage for continued opportunities in the league.

Following his departure from the Colts, Moncrief continued his NFL journey with the Tennessee Titans (2019-2020) and the Houston Texans (2021-2022). While his production fluctuated during these stints, he remained a dedicated professional, consistently striving to contribute to his team's success. His final season with the Texans in 2022 saw him record 35 receptions for 438 yards and four touchdowns, demonstrating he still possessed the skills to compete at the highest level.

However, after considering his options, Moncrief has decided to transition into a new arena - sports broadcasting. This decision isn't entirely unexpected. Former athletes are increasingly sought after by networks due to their ability to provide unique insights into the game. They can dissect plays with an understanding that armchair commentators simply lack, and their personal experiences add a layer of authenticity that resonates with viewers.

"We're excited to welcome Donte to the CBS Sports family," said Nora Sahidi, CBS Sports Coordinating Producer, in a released statement. "He brings a fresh perspective and unique insight to our coverage of March Madness, and we look forward to him connecting with our audience."

But why March Madness? The tournament is notoriously unpredictable, full of buzzer-beaters, Cinderella stories, and intense rivalries. A former professional athlete's ability to understand the pressure-cooker environment of high-stakes competition will be invaluable during the broadcast. Moncrief's background in a team sport - football - will allow him to analyze the strategic elements of basketball, the importance of chemistry, and the mental fortitude required to perform under pressure. While the skills are different on the field and the court, the underlying principles of teamwork, dedication, and overcoming adversity remain constant.

CBS Sports' decision to hire Moncrief reflects a broader strategy of diversifying its broadcast teams. Networks are increasingly looking for analysts who can appeal to a wider audience, and former athletes with compelling stories and engaging personalities are proving to be a popular choice. Other former NFL players have successfully made the transition to broadcasting, including Tony Romo and Drew Brees, demonstrating that the skills are transferable.

The challenge for Moncrief will be adapting to the fast-paced environment of live television. Unlike analyzing game film at his own pace, broadcasting requires quick thinking, concise commentary, and the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and effectively under pressure. He will be working alongside seasoned professionals who will undoubtedly provide guidance and support, but ultimately, his success will depend on his ability to connect with viewers and provide insightful analysis.

Moncrief's debut on the CBS Sports broadcast team will be eagerly anticipated by both football and basketball fans. His transition represents an exciting opportunity for him to pursue a new passion and share his love of sports with a national audience. As March Madness approaches, all eyes will be on Moncrief to see if he can successfully navigate this new challenge and establish himself as a prominent voice in sports broadcasting.