In its continued search for a replacement in the broadcast booth, NBC is tabbing Luke Donald as the lead analyst for its next two events, the Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches and Arnold Palmer Invitational.
Sports Business Journal was first to report the news. A source confirmed to Golfweek that Donald would join the broadcast for the coming weeks. An NBC spokesperson declined comment.
An announcement, however, is expected Sunday.
Donald, the victorious 2023 European Ryder Cup captain who again will lead the team in 2025 at Bethpage Black, is the latest in a line of current golfers or commentators to serve as lead analyst on NBC’s coverage of the PGA Tour, as the network continues to look for a full-time replacement for Paul Azinger.
Kevin Kisner called the season-opening The Sentry in Hawaii and was on the broadcast at the WM Phoenix Open. Brandel Chamblee commentated at The American Express last month, and Paul McGinley and Curt Byrum also have been in the booth. Jim “Bones” Mackay, Justin Thomas’ caddie, is getting a turn this week at the Mexico Open at Vidanta.
SBJ reported Donald is expected to appear Thursday of the Cognizant Classic broadcast on Golf Channel and then join Dan Hicks over the weekend on NBC.
Golfweek’s Adam Schupak contributed to this story.
