For an experienced analyst who makes $12.5 million a year, Cris Collinsworth sure knows how to excite NFL fans. The Sunday Night Football commentator faced a barrage of criticism during the Cowboys-49ers game, with one fan’s wife capturing the evening’s sarcasm perfectly: “Is this announcer a pro-Cowboys guy?”
The October 27 showdown between these old rivals turned into a commentary controversy as Collinsworth’s analysis of Dallas’ struggling defense sparked outrage. His praise seemed disconnected from reality — the Cowboys entered Week 8 with the NFL’s 31st scoring defense under new coordinator Mike Zimmer.
The disconnect became glaringly apparent during the crucial moments of the prime-time battle. While the 49ers took an early 3-0 lead on Anders Karlsson’s 50-yard field goal, Collinsworth’s focus remained firmly on Dallas’ defensive prowess. This came despite the Cowboys losing four of their best defensive ends from training camp — Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, Sam Williams and Marshawn Neyland.
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Cris Collinsworth described the Dallas defense as good when in reality the 49ers offense is just rubbish.
– Big Four Horry (@B4horry) October 28, 2024
The narrative became more confusing after halftime. The 49ers, already dealing with an injury crisis — Brandon Aiyuk is out for the season with a knee injury and Deebo Samuel is hospitalized with pneumonia — led 13-10. Isaac Guerendo’s 4-yard touchdown run, set up by George Kittle’s stunning 43-yard reception, changed the momentum. However, Collinsworth’s commentary continued to focus on Dallas’ defensive challenges.
These moments highlighted a broader pattern in Collinsworth’s broadcasting style. Just two weeks ago, during Cincinnati’s 17-7 win over New York, he drew similar criticism for his praise of Brian Burns’ “phenomenal” sack that sent Joe Burrow to the medical tent for evaluation.
The Voice of Sunday Night Football
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NBC’s commitment to Collinsworth runs deep. Sources familiar with recent discussions told The Athletic that the network plans to extend his contract through the 2029-2030 season. This deal, reportedly worth about $12.5 million annually, will enable him to call two more Super Bowls.
Meanwhile, social media erupted with fan reactions throughout the Cowboys-49ers broadcast. “Cris Collinsworth is on another level of the glass. This was their third drive and first score. ‘Calm down,’ one viewer posted. Another fan jumped straight to the point: ‘Cris Collinsworth called the Dallas defense good when in reality, the 49ers’ offense is just… prattle”
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The network’s position appears firm despite viewer opposition. After Drew Brees’ brief stint as a potential successor ended after one disappointing season, NBC redoubled its efforts on Collinsworth. His new contract, while significant, still costs less than Fox’s $37.5 million commitment to Tom Brady or CBS’ $18 million investment in Tony Romo.
Even Greg Olsen, Fox’s highly regarded No. 2 analyst, who previously earned $10 million as lead commentator, now makes just $3 million from his reduced position. This market reality, combined with NBC’s confidence in Collinsworth’s experience, suggests that love him or hate him, his voice will remain a fixture on Sunday night for years to come.
