Cris Collinsworth, American football player and sportscaster

Anthony Cris Collinsworth, born on January 27, 1959, is a highly distinguished figure in American professional sports, renowned for his dual career as an elite National Football League (NFL) wide receiver and an award-winning sports broadcaster. His journey from the gridiron to the broadcast booth exemplifies a rare and successful transition in the demanding world of professional football.

Collegiate Excellence at the University of Florida

Collinsworth first rose to prominence in college football, showcasing his versatile athletic prowess at the University of Florida. Initially recruited as a highly touted quarterback, he transitioned to the wide receiver position, where his exceptional speed, precise route-running, and reliable hands quickly made him a standout. During his tenure as a Gator, he was not only recognized as an All-American, a testament to his elite performance among college athletes nationwide, but also set numerous school records for receiving, firmly establishing his legacy before entering the professional ranks.

An Illustrious NFL Career with the Cincinnati Bengals

Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft, Collinsworth embarked on an impactful eight-season career, dedicating his entire playing tenure from 1981 to 1988 to the Bengals franchise. As a formidable wide receiver, he quickly became a cornerstone of the Bengals' offense, known for his ability to make game-changing catches and his consistent production. His tenure included a significant Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XVI, where the Bengals faced the San Francisco 49ers. Collinsworth earned three Pro Bowl selections (1981, 1982, 1983) and finished his NFL career with impressive statistics, including 417 receptions for 6,698 yards and 36 touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the most effective wide receivers of his era.

From Player to Pundit: Cris Collinsworth's Acclaimed Broadcasting Journey

Following his impactful playing career, Cris Collinsworth seamlessly transitioned into sports broadcasting, where he has achieved even greater widespread recognition and critical acclaim. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his articulate delivery and insightful analysis, quickly made him a sought-after voice.

A Stalwart of National Sports Broadcasting

Collinsworth's broadcasting portfolio is extensive and highly prestigious. He is perhaps most famously known as the lead color commentator for NBC's "Sunday Night Football," a role he has held since 2009, working alongside play-by-play legends like Al Michaels and currently Mike Tirico. His signature use of the "Collinsworth Slide" to enter the frame and his adept use of the telestrator to break down complex plays have become iconic elements of the broadcast. Beyond NBC, his expertise has been leveraged across multiple platforms, including analysis for Showtime's "Inside the NFL" and various roles on the NFL Network, covering everything from draft analysis to in-depth game breakdowns. His commentary is characterized by meticulous preparation, an ability to anticipate plays, and a knack for explaining intricate football concepts to a broad audience, making the game accessible and engaging for both casual viewers and ardent fans.

A Prolific Sports Emmy Award Winner

A testament to his exceptional talent and enduring influence in sports media, Cris Collinsworth is an astonishing winner of 16 Sports Emmy Awards. These accolades typically recognize his outstanding work as an "Outstanding Sports Analyst" or "Outstanding Sports Personality," underscoring his consistent excellence and innovative approach to dissecting and presenting the game of football on television. His numerous awards solidify his standing as one of the most decorated and respected broadcasters in the history of sports television.

Beyond the Booth: Ownership of Pro Football Focus

Cris Collinsworth's engagement with football extends beyond broadcasting and into the realm of advanced analytics. He is the majority owner of Pro Football Focus (PFF), a groundbreaking sports analytics company that provides in-depth data and analysis for professional and college football. PFF's highly detailed player grading system, which evaluates every player on every snap, has become an invaluable resource for NFL teams, media outlets, and fantasy football enthusiasts alike. Collinsworth's acquisition of a majority stake in PFF was driven by his belief in the power of data to enhance understanding of the game and to maintain the company's independent, unbiased approach to analysis, further cementing his influence in the modern football landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cris Collinsworth

What is Cris Collinsworth most known for?

Cris Collinsworth is widely recognized for his successful dual career as a former All-Pro NFL wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals and his current role as an acclaimed lead color commentator for NBC's "Sunday Night Football." He is also known for his ownership of Pro Football Focus and his extensive collection of Sports Emmy Awards.

When did Cris Collinsworth play in the NFL?

Cris Collinsworth played wide receiver in the NFL for eight seasons, from 1981 to 1988, exclusively with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Which networks does Cris Collinsworth work for?

Cris Collinsworth primarily works as a television sportscaster for NBC, particularly on "Sunday Night Football." He has also provided analysis for Showtime's "Inside the NFL" and the NFL Network.

How many Sports Emmy Awards has Cris Collinsworth won?

Cris Collinsworth is a highly decorated broadcaster, having won an impressive 16 Sports Emmy Awards for his work as a sports analyst and personality.

What is Pro Football Focus (PFF)?

Pro Football Focus (PFF) is a sports analytics company that provides comprehensive data and analysis for professional and college football, including detailed player grades for every snap. Cris Collinsworth is the majority owner of PFF.