When a legend steps away, the game feels a bit different. Remember John Madden’s emotional farewell from the booth in 2009? Stuart Scott’s unforgettable legacy at ESPN? Or, the retirement of Bob Costas from Olympic coverage? Now we have Jimmy Johnson saying, “Yeah, but I’ll be watching them with a cold beer,” in his goodbye message. It’s a hard blow for football fans, players, and colleagues. His impact went far beyond X’s and O’s. He was a coach, a mentor, and a beloved TV personality who made our Sundays special.

Johnson, at the age of 81, announced his retirement on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on March 3, 2025. “I loved every minute of it… Thanks to FOX Sports. It was really the best time of my entire career,” his voice cracking. Johnson has won national championships and back-to-back Super Bowls, yet his time as a broadcaster meant much more to him. He explained to Colin, “You mentioned it, the Hall of Fame College, Hall of Fame Pro, Hall of Fame broadcasting, but the best time of my career was with Fox Sports.”

He spent his career trying to bring out the best in everyone. As he put it, “The thing I try to do is I try to bring out the best in everybody… I don’t care if they were a Hall of Fame player or an intern on our set, I tried to bring out the best in everybody.” He believes that communication was the key to success, “It never gets better if you don’t talk about it, it never gets better if you don’t interact”.

Johnson, after his coaching career, first joined Fox Sports in 1994. Many already knew him as the leader who built teams like Miami and Dallas. He quickly loved his role on Fox NFL Sunday. He was there with his signature charisma, sharp analysis, and unmatched football wisdom, making him a fan favorite. For more than three decades, Johnson entertained and educated viewers every Sunday, becoming a staple of the football-watching experience.

Irvin pays tribute to Jimmy Johnson

After Fox Sports’ official NFL Twitter account posted Johnson’s retirement announcement, Michael Irvin took no time to express his gratitude. “And we all love every bit of you, Coach. You have truly been one of the MIRACLES on our journey. Thank you for EVERYTHING COACH!!!🙏🏿🙏🏿❤️❤️💪🏾💪🏾,” he wrote. The message was raw, heartfelt, and full of admiration. It wasn’t just about football, it was about a personal bond made of triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments.

Johnson and Irvin share a bond that goes back to nearly four decades in time. They were together at the University of Miami. He remembered Johnson for his no-nonsense coaching style. He saw immense potential in Irvin and pushed him to be great. Later they reunited when Johnson took over as the Dallas Cowboys’ head coach in 1989. Honestly, his early years in Dallas weren’t easy. But hard work finally paid off as they went on to win back-to-back Super Bowls in 1993 and 1994. Irvin’s emotional tribute showed just how deeply that impact still resonates.

As the news of his retirement spread, fans, former teammates, and fellow players quickly echoed Irvin’s sentiments. Tributes poured in from across the sports world. Even Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks praised Johnson’s impact on the network, calling him “an irreplaceable part of our football family.” Then, his longtime colleagues like Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, and Curt Menefee shared their memories, celebrating the moments that made working with Johnson special. Sundays won’t be the same without him.

Jimmy Johnson’s farewell marks the end of an incredible chapter in sports media. However, his legacy is set in stone. From championship sidelines to TV studios, he leaves behind a lasting impact that will be felt for generations.