Veteran college football coach Brian Kelly, who formerly led both the LSU and Notre Dame programs, is embarking on a new career path as a game analyst for CBS Sports. This transition follows his mid-season departure from LSU in 2025, where he compiled a notable record over four seasons. His expertise will now be leveraged in the broadcast booth, covering Mountain West football games.
Celebrated Coach Brian Kelly Begins New Chapter with CBS Sports
In a significant development for college football enthusiasts, Brian Kelly, the esteemed former head coach of the LSU Tigers and Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has formally committed to a role with CBS Sports. The announcement, made on a Wednesday, June 24, 2026, confirms Kelly will serve as a game analyst for Mountain West football broadcasts during the upcoming season. This move comes after Kelly's tenure at Louisiana State University concluded in October 2025, following a pivotal loss to Texas A&M. His time in Baton Rouge saw him achieve a commendable 34-14 record across four seasons. Prior to his impactful stint with LSU, Kelly guided the Notre Dame program from 2010 to 2021, securing an official record of 92-39 and earning the prestigious College Football Coach of the Year title on two occasions. His extensive coaching career also includes leadership roles at Cincinnati (2006-09), Central Michigan (2004-06), and Division II Grand Valley State (1991-2003). Kelly is no stranger to the broadcasting world, having previously collaborated with CBS Sports in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft. Reports from Front Office Sports indicate that he will be an integral part of a three-person broadcast team. Despite his new venture, Kelly remained under contract with LSU until 2031, with an average annual salary exceeding $10.1 million. His contract stipulated a payment exceeding $53 million, contingent upon his seeking alternative employment.
Brian Kelly's transition from the sidelines to the broadcast booth offers fans a unique opportunity to gain insights from one of college football's most experienced minds. His extensive background, marked by successful tenures at multiple programs, promises to enrich the viewing experience for Mountain West football. This new chapter highlights the evolving landscape for prominent sports figures, where coaching acumen can seamlessly translate into insightful commentary, providing a fresh perspective on the game he has dedicated his life to.
