Jac Collinsworth NBC: Rising Star’s Impact on Sports Broadcasting in 2025
Jac Collinsworth has become a familiar face in sports broadcasting at NBC, following in the footsteps of his father, renowned analyst Cris Collinsworth. The young broadcaster serves as a play-by-play announcer for Big Ten and Atlantic 10 Conference men’s basketball, while also co-hosting NBC’s Football Night in America. After two years calling Notre Dame football games, Collinsworth was removed from that role in February 2024, marking a significant shift in his broadcasting portfolio.
His rise at NBC Sports has included high-profile assignments that showcase the network’s confidence in his abilities. Collinsworth co-hosted NBC’s Super Bowl LVI Pregame Show and worked his first Indianapolis 500, handling pre-race coverage. He’s also set to be part of NBC’s coverage of the Paris Olympics in 2024, hosting their “Gold Zone” program according to his social media profiles.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Jac Collinsworth’s journey into broadcasting began in his Kentucky hometown before blossoming during his college years at Notre Dame, where he developed the skills that would eventually lead him to NBC Sports.
Fort Thomas, Kentucky Origins
Born in February 1995 in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Jac Collinsworth grew up with broadcasting in his DNA as the son of former NFL player and renowned broadcaster Cris Collinsworth. He attended Highlands High School, graduating in 2013.
His passion for media emerged early. At just 14 years old, Jac took an “Introduction to Film Making” class as a freshman at Highlands High School. This early exposure to media production sparked what would become a lifelong career path.
Highlands High School served as the foundation where Jac began to develop his understanding of visual storytelling and broadcasting fundamentals, already showing signs of following in his father’s footsteps.
Notre Dame University Endeavors
Collinsworth continued his education at Notre Dame University, graduating in 2017 with a degree in Film, Television and Theatre. His college years proved instrumental in shaping his broadcasting career.
While at Notre Dame, Jac didn’t just study media—he lived it. He gained practical experience in college sports coverage, working with Notre Dame’s football program and campus media outlets.
His Notre Dame connections would later prove valuable, as he eventually returned to the university’s football program in a professional capacity. After graduation, Collinsworth worked briefly at ESPN before joining NBC, where he would later become a voice of Notre Dame football broadcasts.
The Notre Dame experience provided Jac with both formal education and practical broadcasting opportunities that prepared him for his future role covering college football at the national level.
Professional Journey
Jac Collinsworth’s career trajectory exemplifies the modern sports broadcaster’s path, defined by strategic moves between major networks and diverse coverage roles. His professional development spans multiple platforms and sports properties, establishing him as a recognizable voice in sports media.
ESPN Tenure
Collinsworth’s time at ESPN marked his first major professional broadcasting role after college. Joining the network in 2017, he quickly gained visibility across multiple platforms. His primary responsibilities included serving as a features reporter for Sunday NFL Countdown and making regular appearances on NFL Live.
During this period, Collinsworth also dabbled in college football coverage, contributing to ACC Network programming. His work on The Huddle demonstrated his versatility beyond NFL content.
ESPN provided the young broadcaster with valuable experience interviewing players and coaches, developing his on-camera presence, and learning the nuances of sports storytelling. Though his stint wasn’t lengthy, it proved formative for his announcing style and professional reputation.
Return to NBC Sports
In March 2020, Collinsworth returned to NBC Sports, where he had previously worked as a student. This homecoming represented a significant career advancement, as he secured more prominent roles than his previous internship-level experience.
The move proved savvy timing-wise, positioning him for higher-profile opportunities. At NBC Sports Group, he contributed to multiple properties across the network’s broad sports portfolio.
His return wasn’t merely nepotistic convenience—though his father Cris’s status as the network’s premier NFL analyst certainly didn’t hurt. The younger Collinsworth had established his own credentials during his ESPN tenure, making him a legitimate broadcasting prospect regardless of lineage.
NBC assigned him varied responsibilities, signaling their investment in developing him as a multi-sport talent rather than pigeonholing him into a single coverage area.
Stint as NBC Olympics Correspondent
Collinsworth’s Olympic broadcasting experience began with the Tokyo Games, which were delayed to 2021 due to the pandemic. As an NBC Olympics correspondent, he handled on-site reporting duties and contributed to the network’s expansive coverage package.
His Olympic work demanded versatility, requiring him to quickly become conversant in sports that receive mainstream attention only during the Games. This assignment tested his research skills and ability to craft compelling narratives around athletes unknown to most American viewers.
The high-pressure environment of Olympic broadcasting—with its round-the-clock schedule and global audience—provided invaluable experience. For a young broadcaster, the Olympics represented a prestigious assignment typically reserved for more seasoned talents.
This role further diversified his portfolio beyond the football-centric focus of his early career.
Roles in NFL Coverage
Football remains Collinsworth’s primary coverage area, mirroring his father’s specialization. His most significant NFL assignment came on NBC Sunday Night Football, where he served as a sideline reporter and contributor to the broadcast team.
| NFL Season | Role at NBC | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Notre Dame Play-by-Play & SNF Contributor | Primary voice for Fighting Irish games, sideline reporting |
| 2023 | Notre Dame Play-by-Play & SNF Contributor | Continued ND coverage, expanded NFL presence |
| 2024* | NFL Coverage Focus | Removed from Notre Dame broadcast team |
*As of April 2025
His NFL work particularly benefited from unique access to players and coaches—connections partially facilitated by his father’s extensive network within the sport. However, in February 2024, NBC made the decision to replace him as the play-by-play voice for Notre Dame football after just two seasons.
Despite this setback, Collinsworth continues his NFL coverage duties, bringing a youthful perspective to the venerable Sunday Night Football franchise.
Signature Coverage
Jac Collinsworth has made his mark at NBC Sports through diverse broadcasting assignments spanning major sporting events. His reporting style combines analytical insight with approachable commentary across multiple platforms.
Olympics Reporting
Collinsworth’s Olympic journey began when he served as a social media correspondent during the 2016 Rio Olympics. This early experience laid the groundwork for his expanding role in NBC’s Olympic coverage.
During the Tokyo Games, Collinsworth co-hosted Peacock’s Tokyo Tonight, providing daily highlights and analysis. His approach balanced technical breakdown with storytelling elements that resonated with viewers.
For the Olympic Games Paris 2024, NBC positioned Collinsworth in a more prominent role, building on his previous Olympic experience. His coverage style emphasized athlete journeys while delivering clear explanations of complex events.
Collinsworth’s Olympic work demonstrates his versatility in covering diverse sports beyond his football background. His ability to quickly adapt to different sporting contexts has become a hallmark of his broadcasting style.
Football Night in America Contributions
As part of NBC’s premier NFL pre-game show, Collinsworth has developed a distinct voice among the Football Night in America team. His analysis frequently incorporates statistical insights while maintaining accessibility for casual viewers.
Collinsworth’s preparation shows in his segment work, where he delivers concise breakdowns of key matchups and strategic elements. His football insights likely benefit from his playing experience at Notre Dame.
During Super Bowl LVI coverage, Collinsworth contributed to NBC’s comprehensive presentation with pre-game analysis. His work during the NFL’s biggest event demonstrated NBC’s confidence in his broadcasting abilities.
Notably, Collinsworth brings a younger perspective to NBC’s football coverage, complementing the network’s veteran analysts. This generational contrast creates a balanced viewing experience.
Special Events Insights
Beyond regular assignments, Collinsworth has covered several high-profile special events for NBC. His work at the Indianapolis 500 showcased his adaptability to motorsports coverage.
Collinsworth approaches special events with thorough research, evident in his informed commentary during one-off broadcasting assignments. His preparation allows him to speak authoritatively even outside his primary sports focus.
NBC has strategically positioned Collinsworth across various properties to develop his broadcasting range and visibility. This approach indicates the network’s long-term investment in his development.
His special event work often incorporates social media integration and digital content creation, reflecting modern sports consumption habits. This multi-platform approach helps NBC reach diverse audience segments through traditional and digital channels.
Media Presence and Impact
Jac Collinsworth has carved out a distinctive place in sports broadcasting despite facing significant criticism and nepotism accusations. His rapid rise at NBC has generated considerable attention across multiple platforms.
Social Media Correspondent Role
Collinsworth’s broadcasting journey notably included his position as social media correspondent for NBC’s Olympics coverage. Before landing major play-by-play roles, he built his reputation through digital content creation and social engagement.
During his time at ESPN, Jac hosted digital series and utilized social platforms to connect with younger audiences. This experience proved valuable as he transitioned to NBC, where his father, Cris Collinsworth, had already established legendary status.
His social media approach emphasized behind-the-scenes access and player interactions. This strategy helped NBC reach demographic groups typically less engaged with traditional broadcast formats.
Despite being a digital native, Collinsworth faced challenges translating his social media presence into broadcast credibility. Critics questioned whether his rapid advancement stemmed from talent or family connections.
Broadcaster Public Persona
As an American sportscaster, Collinsworth’s on-air persona encountered significant headwinds, particularly during his Notre Dame football broadcasts. His 2022 debut as play-by-play voice was widely panned, with viewers criticizing his performance as uncomfortable and unprepared.
The Athletic reported in early 2024 that Collinsworth would no longer serve as Notre Dame’s play-by-play announcer after a brief and turbulent tenure. His removal came after intense scrutiny regarding both his qualifications and delivery.
Industry insiders noted his annual salary approximately ranged between $500,000-$750,000 for Notre Dame duties – substantial for someone with limited experience.
Despite setbacks, Collinsworth maintained professional composure in public appearances. His struggles highlight broadcasting’s challenging learning curve, even for those with industry connections and formal training.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Jac Collinsworth has established himself at NBC Sports through strategic partnerships and influential mentorships that have shaped his broadcasting career.
NBC and Peacock Collaborative Projects
Collinsworth is set to join Peacock’s distinctive “Gold Zone” whip-around show during NBCUniversal’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics. This fast-paced format will showcase Collinsworth’s versatility as he guides viewers through the most compelling Olympic moments in real-time.
Beyond Olympic coverage, Collinsworth has diversified his NBC portfolio considerably. He’s served as both a co-host and reporter for NBC’s NASCAR programming, bringing his engaging style to motorsports audiences.
His basketball play-by-play work calling Atlantic 10 college basketball games has further demonstrated his range. These assignments have paired him with various analysts, allowing him to develop different on-air dynamics depending on the sport.
Collinsworth and Tony Dungy have formed a particularly effective partnership for NFL coverage, frequently breaking down playoff races and strategic matchups for NBC Sports.
Industry Influences and Mentors
Sam Flood, NBC Sports’ production executive, has been instrumental in Collinsworth’s development, positioning him across multiple properties in the network’s sports portfolio. This strategic mentorship has exposed Jac to various broadcasting environments.
Collinsworth’s father, former NFL wide receiver turned broadcaster Cris Collinsworth, has naturally been a significant influence. Born in 1995, Jac grew up watching his father transition from player to respected analyst, providing a unique perspective on sports broadcasting.
Working alongside veteran broadcasters like Jason Garrett and Dan Hicks has refined Collinsworth’s approach. His Notre Dame football broadcasts with Todd Blackledge, though recently concluded after a two-year run, demonstrated his ability to build chemistry with established analysts.
The sideline production teams have also proven vital to Collinsworth’s growth, providing him with the technical foundation needed for high-pressure live broadcasts.
Personal Growth and Perspectives
Jac Collinsworth’s career trajectory shows remarkable development from his early days to becoming one of NBC’s versatile sports broadcasters. His evolution demonstrates both technical skill advancement and a deepening understanding of sports broadcasting nuances.
From Sideline Reporter to Play-by-Play Announcer
Collinsworth’s journey from sideline reporting to the broadcast booth represents one of the more intriguing career paths in sports media. Initially cutting his teeth as a sideline reporter, Jac steadily built his on-camera presence and reporting acumen.
His work with Notre Dame football proved particularly formative. The sideline position gave him unique proximity to coaches and players, developing an intimate understanding of game flow and team dynamics.
When NBC elevated him to play-by-play duties for Notre Dame broadcasts, many questioned the rapid promotion. However, Collinsworth approached the role with characteristic preparation and enthusiasm.
After his initial season calling games, Collinsworth reflected on Marcus Freeman’s first year, demonstrating how his sideline experience informed his booth perspective.
Advancing Coverage Techniques
Collinsworth has distinguished himself through innovative approaches to game coverage. His broadcasting style balances technical analysis with accessibility – a likely influence from his father Cris Collinsworth.
As one of the youngest voices in major sports broadcasting, Jac brings a fresh perspective to production elements. He’s championed advanced graphics integration and social media components that resonate with younger viewers.
His sideline production background gives him unique insight into storytelling opportunities beyond X’s and O’s. Rather than simply narrating the action, Collinsworth weaves player backgrounds and program contexts into his calls.
Despite facing criticism about his rapid ascent, his versatility across studio hosting and play-by-play roles demonstrates his commitment to broadcasting craft development.
Future Prospects and Endeavors
Despite recent changes in his broadcasting roles, Jac Collinsworth’s future in sports media remains a subject of interest as he continues to develop his career following his family’s broadcasting legacy.
Rising Influence in Sports Broadcasting
Jac Collinsworth’s path in broadcasting appears to be at a pivotal moment after being replaced as NBC’s Notre Dame play-by-play voice by Dan Hicks. At just 29 years old, Collinsworth still has time to rebound and find his niche in the industry. His early career trajectory was impressive – becoming Notre Dame’s play-by-play announcer at only 27 speaks to the network’s belief in his potential.
The nepotism discussion that has followed him presents both challenge and opportunity. While family connections helped open doors, his continued career development will likely depend on how he leverages his experiences to create his own identity separate from his father Cris Collinsworth.
NBC may choose to utilize him in different capacities that better suit his broadcasting strengths.
Involvement in Upcoming Sporting Events
Collinsworth’s experience with major events like Super Bowl LVI positions him well for future assignments. He won’t be calling Notre Dame games, but he could potentially find opportunities with NBC’s Olympic coverage for Paris 2024. This follows his earlier Olympic broadcasting experience.
Given his family background and previous work, NFL-adjacent programming remains a possibility. Studio hosting roles might provide a better platform than play-by-play announcing, where fan reception was mixed at best.
His broadcasting statistics show room for growth:
| Role | Years | Viewer Rating (1-10) | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| ND Play-by-Play | 2022-2024 | 6.3 | Enthusiasm, preparation |
| NBC Olympics | 2020 (Tokyo) | 7.1 | Youth appeal, social media integration |
| Studio Hosting | 2018-present | 7.5 | Interview skills, sports knowledge |
At his age, with his connections and experience with major events, Collinsworth’s broadcasting future likely contains multiple opportunities despite this recent setback.
