What's Happening?
Jonathan Jones, the lead NFL insider for CBS Sports, is reportedly in discussions to join The Athletic, according to Front Office Sports. Jones has been with CBS since 2019, where he started as a senior NFL reporter. He was promoted to lead NFL insider in 2022,
contributing to 'The NFL Today' alongside notable figures such as James Brown and Boomer Esiason. Jones is recognized for his substantive reporting, distinguishing himself from peers often criticized for focusing on transactional news. If the move to The Athletic is finalized, Jones will focus on feature reporting and behind-the-scenes coverage, rather than the daily insider role previously held by Dianna Russini, who left The Athletic in April.
Why It's Important?
The potential move of Jonathan Jones to The Athletic is significant for both CBS Sports and The Athletic. For CBS, losing Jones would mean filling a critical gap in their NFL coverage, especially as the 2026 season approaches. Jones has been a key figure in providing in-depth NFL insights, and his departure could impact the network's ability to deliver comprehensive football coverage. For The Athletic, acquiring Jones would bolster their NFL reporting team, filling the void left by Dianna Russini. This move could enhance The Athletic's reputation for quality sports journalism, attracting more subscribers and readers interested in detailed sports analysis.
What's Next?
If Jonathan Jones finalizes his move to The Athletic, CBS Sports will need to find a replacement to maintain their NFL coverage standards. This could involve promoting an internal candidate or hiring an external journalist with a strong NFL background. Meanwhile, The Athletic will likely integrate Jones into their team, focusing on leveraging his expertise in feature reporting to attract a broader audience. The transition period will be crucial for both organizations as they adjust to these changes in their sports journalism teams.
