Erik Johnson Lands ESPN Analyst Gig

Erik Johnson’s post-playing career has already taken off.

After already making appearances on the Avalanche’s local broadcast, the longtime NHL defenseman, who announced his retirement earlier in the month, has landed another big-time position in the media landscape.

Johnson will join ESPN as an Analyst during the 2025-26 season.

As a kid I idolized Thorne, Clement, Melrose, Levy & Buccigross. To call games with some of them on @espn is going to be surreal. Can’t wait, let’s go! https://t.co/wx4GGaJxlB

— Erik Johnson (@6ErikJohnson) October 14, 2025

Johnson has always been a perfect fit for this line of work after his playing days. His personality and knowledge are assets for growing the game. On ESPN, he’ll have a chance to show the rest of the league what many in Colorado have seen from him over the years.

The 2022 Stanley Cup champion was drafted No. 1 overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2006. He was traded to Colorado in 2011 in a late-night blockbuster deal, and went on to play 12 years with the Avs, before returning ahead of the 2025 trade deadline.

Johnson announced his retirement after considering PTO options around the league.