Chris Berman Reveals Plans to Retire from ESPN After 2029 NFL Season

The longtime ESPN personality will step away from broadcasting at age 75.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Chris Berman, the well-known ESPN personality, has announced that he plans to retire from broadcasting after his contract with the network ends following the 2029 NFL season. Berman, who is currently 70 years old, said he will be "almost 75" by that time and believes "the nation's more than had enough" of him.

Why it matters

Berman has been a fixture on ESPN for decades, hosting popular shows like "NFL Primetime," "Monday Night Countdown," and "Sunday NFL Countdown." His retirement will mark the end of an era for the network and sports broadcasting in general, as Berman is known for his iconic catchphrases and unique broadcasting style.

The details

Berman told Alex Sherman on the 'CNBC Sport' podcast that he is currently "semi-retired" but will continue working until his contract expires after the 2029 NFL season. He has been part of the relaunch of "NFL Primetime" on ESPN+ and has covered a variety of sports for the network over the years, including Major League Baseball.

  • Berman's contract with ESPN will end after the 2029 NFL season.
  • Berman is currently 70 years old and will be "almost 75" when he retires.

The players

Chris Berman

A longtime ESPN personality known for his zany catchphrases and unique broadcasting style. He has hosted popular shows like "NFL Primetime," "Monday Night Countdown," and "Sunday NFL Countdown" during his career.

Booger McFarland

Berman's co-host on the relaunched "NFL Primetime" show on ESPN+.

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What they’re saying

“I'll be almost 75, I think the nation's more than had enough of me.”

— Chris Berman (CNBC Sport* podcast)

What’s next

Berman's retirement will mark the end of an era for ESPN and sports broadcasting, as he has been a fixture on the network for decades. The network will likely need to find a replacement for Berman's iconic broadcasting style and catchphrases.

The takeaway

Chris Berman's impending retirement from ESPN after the 2029 NFL season will be a significant moment in sports broadcasting, as he has been a beloved and recognizable figure on the network for over 40 years. His unique style and famous catchphrases have become ingrained in the culture of sports fans, and his departure will leave a void that will be difficult to fill.