Ernie Johnson, who stepped in to lead CBS and TNT’s March Madness coverage after Greg Gumbel’s passing, has announced he will skip the first two weeks of the tournament.  

Instead, former NFL wide‑receiver Nate Burleson will take over for those early rounds—his first time calling the NCAA Tournament.  

Fans were quick to worry when CBS and TNT revealed the change, but Johnson said he chose this move.  

He explained that it was a personal decision and thanked his colleagues at TNT Sports and CBS for their support.  

Johnson plans to return to the studio in Indianapolis when the Final Four arrives, where he will host the final games.  

A source familiar with the situation told NJ. com that Johnson is “fine. ”  

The 69‑year‑old broadcaster appears to be easing his workload as he moves deeper into the later stages of his career.  

The 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket will be unveiled on Selection Sunday, March 15, and the event will kick off with the First Four games on March 17.


**Ernie Johnson to Skip First Two Weeks of March Madness**

- **New Host for Early Rounds**  
  Former NFL wide‑receiver Nate Burleson will take over CBS and TNT’s March Madness coverage for the first two weeks—his debut calling the NCAA Tournament.

- **Johnson’s Reason**  
  Ernie Johnson, who has stepped in after Greg Gumbel’s passing, said the decision is personal. He thanked colleagues at TNT Sports and CBS for their support.

- **Return to the Studio**  
  Johnson will rejoin the Indianapolis studio when the Final Four arrives, hosting the championship games.

- **Source Confirmation**  
  A source familiar with the situation told *NJ.com* that Johnson is “fine.”

- **Career Context**  
  At 69, the broadcaster appears to be easing his workload as he moves deeper into the later stages of his career.

- **Tournament Timeline**  
  - Bracket unveiled on Selection Sunday, March 15  
  - First Four games begin March 17  



Ernie Johnson Steps Back From March Madness Hosting

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