NFL icon and broadcasting legend Jimmy Johnson officially announced his retirement from FOX Sports earlier this week, closing the curtain on a remarkable chapter in sports media. The news triggered an outpouring of admiration and gratitude from fans and colleagues alike, many of whom took to social media to celebrate Johnson’s contributions to football both on and off the field. One of the most touching responses came from sportscaster Erin Andrews, who delivered a heartfelt tribute that quickly went viral, praising Johnson’s professionalism, mentorship, and lasting impact on the industry. Johnson, clearly moved by the emotional message, publicly responded with gratitude, expressing how much the support from his FOX Sports family has meant to him throughout his career. As the football world reflects on his enduring legacy, Johnson’s gracious response reminds everyone why he’s not only a Hall of Fame coach but also a respected and beloved voice in sports broadcasting.

Jimmy Johnson has responded to a message from Erin Andrews(Image: David Buono/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Jimmy Johnson has sent a heartfelt message to sideline reporter Erin Andrews after announcing his retirement from FOX Sports.

The two-time Super Bowl-winning coach with the Dallas Cowboys first joined FOX NFL Sunday as an analyst in 1994. After a return to coaching at the Miami Dolphins, Johnson reunited with the FOX panel in 1999.

The network hinted that Johnson could soon be bidding farewell during Super Bowl weekend, dedicating an emotional video package to his journey through the sport as a player, coach, and analyst. The 81-year-old confirmed his retirement this week, prompting a tribute from FOX colleague Andrews.

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“My favorite part about working with @jimmyjohnson4616 will always be my check-ins with @nflonfox during breaks,” Andrews wrote on Instagram. “Coach is always the first one to say how much he liked my outfit, asked me [about] the crowd, or about the weather at the stadium.

“His speeches were legendary at our dinners. And his humor, laugh, and smile were the best part about being around him! Cheers to you Coach! Love you so much! Proud to be your forever teammate.”

After being made aware of Andrews’ message, Johnson demonstrated his classy persona as he made clear that the feeling was mutual. “Erin always has a smile & her wit is second to none,” he said. “Going to miss the entire group.”

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On Monday, Johnson announced his decision to leave his role at FOX. The 81-year-old explained that, while working with the network had been the best part of his illustrious football career, it was a decision he had mulled over for several years.

“As you know, probably the most fun I’ve ever had in my career, and that’s counting Super Bowls and National Championships, was at Fox Sports,” Johnson said on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. “I have an absolute ball with my friends on the set, and the best friends I’ve ever had there with Fox.

“And I’ll tell you on top of that, I love working for Eric Shanks, our CEO, and our producer Bill Richards. But I’ve made an extremely difficult decision.

“I’ve been thinking about it for the last four or five years, and I’ve decided to retire from Fox, and I’m going to miss it. ’m going to miss all the guys, and I’ll see them occasionally, but it has been a great run starting back 31 years ago.”

While Johnson plans how to spend his retirement, Andrews faces an uncertain future. The sideline reporter has reached the end of her contract with FOX and will weigh up her options ahead of the new NFL season.