Revisiting the legacy of Greg Gumbel as CBS pulls iconic broadcaster from NFL duties

After over three decades in active service, television sportscaster Greg Gumbel will step aside from covering the NFL. The veteran, who has been at the forefront of sports journalism for several decades, inked a new deal with CBS to only host the NCAA tournament.

It marks the end of an era for the 76-year-old announcer, as well as millions of lifelong NFL fans who have heard him call play-by-play in the league and other major sports championships over the years. His legacy, however, will live on in the NFL world.

Broadcasting Career of Greg Gumbel

Gumbel began his broadcasting career at NBC's WMAQ-TV in Chicago. Gumbel worked at WMAQ-TV for seven years after previously selling hospital supplies in Detroit. Nonetheless, his time with the network provided a solid foundation for his future broadcasting career.

The sportscaster went on to work with MSG, ESPN, and WFAN radio. He was the anchor of the "SportsCenter" show on ESPN and also did play-by-play for NBA games when they were first televised on ESPN. He moved on to CBS as a part-time NFL announcer in September 1988.

For the 1990-1993 season, he co-hosted "The NFL Today" with Terry Bradshaw on CBS. Gumbel moved to NBC in 1994 after CBS lost its NFL and MLB broadcasting rights. He was the studio host for "The NFL on NBC" while working for the network.

Gumbel returned to CBS after the broadcast of Super Bowl XXXII on NBC. He joined the NFL broadcast team as the lead announcer with Phil Simmons, a fellow NBC alumnus. He's been with the network since then, covering the NFL, NCAA tournaments, and other major sports leagues in the United States.

Gumbel's Legacy in NFL Broadcasting

NCAA Men's Final Four - Practice

Following several decades of work and dedication, Gumbel will be remembered as one of the greatest sportscasters to ever cover the NFL. He made history by becoming the first African American play-by-play announcer to call a major championship game in any sport.

Gumby, as he was called on "The NFL Today" by co-anchors Dan Marino, Shannon Sharpe, and Boomer Esiason, has won numerous sports broadcasting awards. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented and respected journalists in professional football.

Gumbel's career in NFL broadcasting has been nothing short of remarkable. The veteran has covered some of the most significant NFL games, including a number of Super Bowls, and has made an indelible impact in the industry. His dedication to his craft, along with his talent and passion, have made him one of the most respected and admired person in the NFL world.