Did Chris Collinsworth Play Football? College Career Revealed

By Sarah Miller · November 4, 2051

Yes, Chris Collinsworth played college football at the University of Cincinnati as a wide receiver from 1977 to 1980 before embarking on a successful career in sports broadcasting. Although he did not play in the NFL, his football experience laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the game, which he now shares as a top NFL analyst.

Who Is Chris Collinsworth?

Chris Collinsworth is best known today as a prominent NFL color commentator and studio analyst, currently working for NBC Sports on Sunday Night Football. However, long before he became a household name in sports media, he was an accomplished college football player.

Early Life and Athletic Background

Born on June 27, 1959, in Ohio, Collinsworth showed athletic promise early on. He attended St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, where he excelled in football, track, and basketball. His performance on the gridiron earned him a scholarship to the University of Cincinnati.

College Football Career

Collinsworth played wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bearcats from 1977 to 1980. During his collegiate career, he developed into one of the program's most reliable offensive weapons.

Position: Wide Receiver
College: University of Cincinnati
Years Active: 1977–1980
Notable Achievement: Led team in receiving yards for multiple seasons
Drafted?: No (did not enter NFL Draft)

Season	Receptions	Receiving Yards	Yards Per Catch	Touchdowns
1977	24	367	15.3	2
1978	35	582	16.6	4
1979	41	701	17.1	5
1980	44	733	16.7	6
Career Totals	144	2,383	16.6	17

Table data source:University of Cincinnati Athletics, Sports Reference

The table above illustrates Collinsworth's consistent year-over-year improvement, culminating in a standout senior season with 44 receptions for 733 yards and 6 touchdowns. His career average of 16.6 yards per catch highlights his ability as a deep threat and reliable downfield target.

Transition from Player to Broadcaster

Despite strong college numbers, Chris Collinsworth was not drafted into the NFL. Rather than pursue professional football abroad or in minor leagues, he shifted focus to academics and communication.

Key Factors in His Career Shift

Earned a degree in communications from the University of Cincinnati
Began working in local radio and TV while still in school
Leveraged football knowledge to build credibility in sports media
Joined HBO’s Inside the NFL in the 1980s, launching national exposure

His firsthand playing experience gives him unique insight when analyzing routes, coverage schemes, and quarterback decision-making—a perspective highly valued by fans and peers alike.

Legacy and Influence in Football Media

Today, Chris Collinsworth is one of the most recognizable voices in American sports broadcasting. Alongside Al Michaels, he formed one of the longest-running broadcast duos in Sunday Night Football history.

His son, Cris Collinsworth Jr., followed in his footsteps both academically and athletically, playing football at Notre Dame before also transitioning into media.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chris Collinsworth and Football

Did Chris Collinsworth ever play in the NFL?

No, Chris Collinsworth did not play in the NFL. He had a standout college football career at the University of Cincinnati but was not drafted and did not sign with any professional team.

What position did Chris Collinsworth play in college?

Chris Collinsworth played wide receiver for the University of Cincinnati Bearcats from 1977 to 1980.

Where did Chris Collinsworth go to college?

Chris Collinsworth attended the University of Cincinnati, where he played football and studied communications.

Is Chris Collinsworth related to Cris Collinsworth?

Yes, Chris Collinsworth is the father of former NFL wide receiver and current broadcaster Cris Collinsworth. The two are often confused due to their similar names and careers.

Why is Chris Collinsworth famous if he didn’t play in the NFL?

Although he didn’t play professionally, Chris Collinsworth built a distinguished career as a sports broadcaster. His deep understanding of football strategy, gained from his college playing days, made him a respected analyst on networks like HBO and NBC.

How did Chris Collinsworth start his broadcasting career?

After graduating from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in communications, Chris Collinsworth began working in local radio and television. His big break came when he joined HBO’s Inside the NFL in the early 1980s, which launched his national media presence.