Brian Kelly is set to re-enter the national college football conversation as a color analyst for the 2026 season, where he will primarily cover Mountain West matchups for CBS Sports. His new role also places him on the CBSSN weekday program Inside College Football, expanding his presence across the network's college football portfolio.
From LSU to the Broadcast Booth
Kelly's transition to the broadcast booth follows his firing from LSU in 2025, a move that ended a nearly four‑year tenure in which he compiled a 34‑14 record and led the Tigers to back‑to‑back ten‑win seasons. Prior to that, he had contributed studio analysis for CBS Sports Network around the NFL Draft, giving him a taste of on‑air work that he now embraces full‑time.
The former head coach at Grand Valley State, Central Michigan, Cincinnati, Notre Dame and LSU has amassed a career record of 297‑109‑2, punctuated by a BCS National Championship Game appearance with Notre Dame in 2012 and a College Football Playoff semifinal run in 2020. Those milestones underscore a coaching pedigree that CBS hopes will enrich its Mountain West coverage with depth and insight.
A Coach Ready to Mentor
Beyond analysis, Kelly has repeatedly voiced a desire to return to the sidelines, emphasizing mentorship and program building as core to his professional identity. He sees his analyst role as an opportunity to stay connected to the game's evolving landscape while preparing for future coaching opportunities that align with his philosophy of player development.
CBS Sports executives view Kelly's hiring as a strategic boost, believing his firsthand experience and proven leadership will resonate with viewers and provide a unique perspective on the teams he once coached. As the network expands its college football slate, Kelly's voice is expected to add a layer of authenticity that complements the existing commentary team.