Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 10:31 am GMT
In the world of sports broadcasting, few names stand out quite like Collinsworth. Cris Collinsworth, a celebrated former NFL player, has spent decades captivating audiences with his insights and analysis on NFL broadcasts. As his son Jac Collinsworth rises through the ranks at NBC Sports, many wonder: how are these two talented broadcasters related, and what’s the story behind their familial connection?
Family Ties in Sports Broadcasting
Cris Collinsworth, born on January 27, 1959, is not only renowned for his successful NFL career but also celebrated for his lengthy broadcasting tenure. After retiring from football in the late 1980s, Cris seamlessly transitioned to media, ultimately becoming a key figure in NBC Sports’ NFL coverage. Meanwhile, Jac Collinsworth, born on February 13, 1995, is carving out his own identity in the industry, hosting shows like “Football Night in America” and contributing to “Peacock Sunday Night Football Final.”
Jac’s rise in broadcasting is certainly influenced by his father’s legacy, but there’s much more to his story.
- Cris Collinsworth – Former NFL wide receiver, current NBC Sports broadcaster.
- Jac Collinsworth – Cris’s son, host and reporter at NBC Sports.
From Fort Thomas to Sports Stardom
Growing up in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Jac was immersed in sports from an early age. He played football and basketball at Highlands High School, but a back injury hindered his athletic aspirations. This setback led him to explore a different path: sports broadcasting.
With a passion inspired by his father and a desire to share stories, Jac attended the University of Notre Dame. There, he developed his media skills, creating a digital series called “ND Live” focused on Irish football. During his college years, Jac also worked behind the scenes for NBC during Notre Dame football coverage, gaining valuable experience in the industry.
Carving His Own Path
After graduating from Notre Dame, Jac started his professional career at ESPN. As a features reporter for “Sunday NFL Countdown,” and later as the host of “NFL Live,” he built a foundation for his future in sports media. His breadth of experience prepared him for a return to NBC, where he joined his father in 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift in many broadcasting roles.
Since rejoining NBC, Jac has achieved several notable milestones:
- Contributed to NBC’s coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
- Co-hosted NBC’s Super Bowl LVI Pregame Show.
- Anchored pre-race coverage for the Indy 500 on NBCSN.
- Participated regularly in NASCAR and Atlantic 10 basketball coverage.
Every Saturday night and Sunday, viewers get a unique father-son perspective on NFL broadcasts, enjoying the lively discussions and differing viewpoints the Collinsworths provide.
A Legacy in the Making
Cris Collinsworth’s impressive career as an NFL wide receiver sets the stage for his impactful broadcasting journey. Drafted in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals, Cris’s on-field talent quickly established him as a star. He played eight seasons in the NFL, earning accolades as a Pro Bowler and a second-team All-Pro during his time with the Bengals.
After his retirement, Cris transitioned to broadcasting, where he cultivated his distinctive voice and analytic style. He has won 17 Sports Emmy Awards, showcasing his influence and success in the field. Additionally, Cris’s role alongside Al Michaels as color commentator on “Sunday Night Football” has made both a familiar fixture in American households.
Following the Footsteps
While some might see Jac’s career trajectory as simply following in his father’s footsteps, it’s clear that he is determined to make a name for himself. Jac brings his own unique style and perspective to broadcasts, ensuring that while viewers can appreciate Cris’s legacy, they are also excited about the future contributions of the next generation.
“I had a passion for storytelling,” Jac stated in an interview. “Watching my dad inspired me, but I always wanted to find my voice.”
The Future of the Collinsworths in Broadcasting
As both Cris and Jac continue to thrive in their careers, the dynamics of their father-son relationship add depth to the broadcasts. Their differing experiences and insights create a compelling narrative for viewers, who appreciate both the nostalgia of Cris’s illustrious past in the NFL and the fresh viewpoints Jac brings to the table.
With Cris Collinsworth’s blend of experience and knowledge and Jac Collinsworth’s youthful enthusiasm and innovation, viewers are assured an engaging experience each time they tune into NFL coverage on NBC.
Conclusion: More than Just a Name
The Collinsworth name has become synonymous with NFL broadcasting excellence. While their lives and careers are interwoven through family ties, it’s clear that each has forged his own unique path in the world of sports broadcasting. As Cris continues to serve as a titan of the industry and Jac steps further into the limelight, fans are left with one certainty: the Collinsworths will remain a dynamic pair contributing to the ever-evolving narrative of sports media.
If you love watching NFL highlights or want to learn more about the game’s strategy, the Collinsworth family is a great example of passion and tradition in sports. Both the father and son are always working hard to improve their skills. Because of this, fans can look forward to exciting new things from the Collinsworths in sports broadcasting for many years!
