One former Pittsburgh Steelers turned broadcaster could give way to another with a similar resume. Reportedly, NBC is prepared to move on from Tony Dungy as part of its Sunday Night “Football In America” coverage. Dungy, a longtime analyst, is likely to be replaced for a refreshed version of the broadcast for the 2026 season. In sharing the news, reporter Andrew Marchand, a leading authority on all things sports television and production related, floated three current or former Steelers who could replace him: Mike Tomlin, Cam Heyward, and Aaron Rodgers.
From Marchand’s article.
“The No. 1 NFL TV studio target, former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, might be reluctant to enter TV, while Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce appears to want to play another year and has indicated he prefers to call games if he enters broadcasting. Cam Heyward appeared on NBC’s Super Bowl pregame, but might not be done playing. Kirk Cousins was on CBS’ postseason pregame, and though he is expected to be cut by the Atlanta Falcons, he could also stay on the field. A wild card is quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who also might play another year with the Steelers.”
Tomlin would be an obvious choice atop NBC’s wish list. Long-rumored to be the apple of television’s eye, Tomlin resigned as the Steelers’ head coach last month. Jumping into broadcasting would make for a familiar path, following the likes of Sean Payton, Bruce Arians, and Urban Meyer. But there’s no indication Tomlin is as eager to jump into the role. Years ago, he told Rich Eisen television wasn’t an attractive career, too reluctant to criticize his peers on national television.
As Marchand notes, Heyward and Rodgers’ playing careers might not be over. Decisions on both are expected in the relative near future with signs pointing to both returning. Heyward’s dots are a little easier to connect. Dipping his toe into broadcasting waters for years, he’s appeared on NFL Network, has his own podcast, and was part of NBC’s pregame coverage prior to this year’s Super Bowl.
Rodgers is an interesting name to suggest. He’s largely rejected doing any formal analysis, though he previously made regular appearances on the Pat McAfee show prior to last offseason. With a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a seemingly photographic memory, Rodgers would make for an excellent analysis. But it’s easy to see him reject the “hot take” nature television often demands with instant reaction, biting commentary, and quick analysis.
Previously, Rodgers has also stated he intends to leave the public eye in retirement. If anything, podcasting feels more his speed.
NBC has time to sort out Dungy’s replacement. If Heyward or Rodgers retire, the network could come calling. And they almost certainly have, or will, check in on Tomlin. Which would make for an interesting wrinkle. Dungy gave Tomlin his first NFL job and served as his mentor. There’s a chance Tomlin’s first push into television could be replacing Dungy.
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