Nate Burleson Hosts March Madness on CBS During Ernie Johnson's Absence

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Nate Burleson, a former NFL wide receiver, has been hosting CBS' March Madness coverage this year instead of Ernie Johnson, the network's longtime studio host. Johnson requested additional time off to focus on his work with the "Inside the NBA" crew, which has moved from TNT to ESPN this season. Burleson has been increasingly visible on CBS' football coverage and is being tested as a potential replacement for James Brown as the host of "NFL Today."

Why it matters

Ernie Johnson is a beloved and iconic figure in sports broadcasting, so his absence from March Madness coverage is notable. Nate Burleson's presence on the CBS desk provides an opportunity to evaluate his potential as a future host for the network's marquee sports coverage.

The details

Burleson, who has experience as a pre-game analyst on Nickelodeon's "NFL Slimetime," has stepped in to host CBS' March Madness coverage during the first two weekends of the tournament. Johnson reportedly requested the time off to focus on his work with the "Inside the NBA" crew, which has moved from TNT to ESPN this season. It's unclear if Johnson's absence is due to health reasons, family obligations, or the new ESPN schedule, but he is expected to return for the Final Four and National Championship games.

• The 2026 NCAA Tournament is nearly through the second round.
• Johnson requested additional time off this season from CBS.
• Johnson is expected to return for coverage of the Men's Final Four and the National Championship game.

What’s next

It is unclear whether the 69-year-old Johnson was taking time off for health reasons, to spend time with family, or to accommodate a new schedule for "Inside the NBA" with ESPN, but he is expected to return to his normal CBS studio role after the first two weekends of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.