The NFL rumor mill is churning, but this time the news isn't about a trade or a contract holdout. On Thursday morning, Jonathan Jones, one of the most trusted voices in NFL reporting, announced he's officially closing his chapter at CBS Sports.
Jones, who joined the network in 2019, quickly became the go-to insider for breaking news, in-depth analysis, and behind-the-scenes scoops. He was a regular on CBS Sports HQ and contributed to the network's flagship pregame shows, including "The NFL Today." His departure marks a significant shift in the landscape of NFL media coverage.
In a heartfelt post on social media, Jones expressed gratitude for his time at CBS. "After nearly 7 years, I will be moving on from CBS Sports. I'm so thankful for everyone there who poured into me. HQ is the best at what they do, and there are so many talented people there. I will forever be honored to be part of 2 great pregame shows in TOPS and The NFL Today," he wrote. "More to come soon, but for now… I appreciate the opportunity to learn along the way, and I'm indebted to all those at CBS who believed in me and helped make me better."
The timing of his exit is notable, coming just over a month before the 2026 NFL season kicks off. But Jones isn't stepping away from the game he loves—he's reportedly lining up his next move. According to Front Office Sports' Ryan Glasspiegel, Jones is in advanced talks to join The Athletic. While his role at CBS centered on breaking news and insider reporting, his potential position at The Athletic would shift toward feature stories and behind-the-scenes content, offering fans a different lens into the NFL.
This move would fill a void left by Dianna Russini, who recently departed The Athletic. Jones's deep connections across the league and his knack for storytelling make him a natural fit for the outlet's subscription-based model. Though no deal has been officially announced, the buzz around his next chapter is already building.
Jones's departure also highlights the ever-changing media landscape, where insiders are increasingly valued for their ability to produce both written and video content. His versatility—on camera and behind the keyboard—has made him a sought-after talent.
As the NFL world waits for his next move, one thing is certain: Jonathan Jones isn't going anywhere quiet. Whether he's breaking news or crafting long-form features, his fingerprints will remain all over the league's biggest stories. And with training camps just around the corner, you can bet he'll be right in the middle of the action.
In related NFL news, the league is also dealing with fallout from a Cardinals scouting director being suspended for insider betting and draft leaks, a reminder that off-field drama never sleeps. And across the league, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones mourned the loss of Texans co-founder Janice McNair, whose legacy of charity and football will be remembered for years to come.
