How Much Does Nate Burleson Make On Cbs Mornings

So, you’re sitting there with your coffee—probably the second cup, because mornings are tough—watching CBS Mornings. And Nate Burleson, that giant ball of sunshine and athlete grace, is cracking a joke with Gayle King. You stop sipping and wonder: how much does this guy actually make? It’s a fair question, right? We’re all friends here, so let’s break it down like we’re gossiping about a mutual colleague.

The Short Answer (No Accounting Degree Required)

Nate Burleson’s salary for CBS Mornings is reportedly around $3 million per year. I know, I know—that sounds like Monopoly money. But before you choke on your bagel, hear me out. That number puts him in the same ballpark as his co-hosts, though Gayle King is rumored to be pulling in significantly more. (Not a shock—she’s basically the queen of morning television.)

For context, that’s about $250,000 a month. That’s “buy a sports car on a whim” money. But for Burleson, it’s also “I’ve worked my tail off for two decades” money. The guy was an NFL wide receiver for 11 seasons. He knows what a real paycheck pain feels like—like getting tackled by a linebacker.

How Did He Get This Gig (And This Paycheck)?

Nate didn’t just waltz into the CBS studio looking like a dapper ex-jock. He earned it. After retiring from the NFL in 2014, he jumped into sports broadcasting with the NFL Network. Then he became a co-host on Good Morning Football, where viewers fell in love with his energy. CBS snatched him up in 2021 for their revamped morning show. And boom—he’s now sitting next to Tony Dokoupil and Gayle King, making us all laugh before 7 AM.

The salary reflects that journey. You don’t go from catching passes to catching headlines without being good at what you do. Plus, CBS was in a bidding war of sorts—NBC and ESPN were circling him too. That little competition? It boosted his price tag like a hot stock.

But Wait—Is That Just Show or What?

Here’s where it gets tricky. The $3 million figure is his base salary. But Nate also has endorsement deals with brands like Nike and Old Spice. He’s got a podcast, The Nate Burleson Show, and occasional acting gigs (he played himself in a “CSI” episode). So his total income is probably closer to $4 or $5 million a year. Let’s be real—he’s not hurting for cash.

Nate Burleson Starts on ‘CBS Mornings’ | Next TV | Broadcasting+Cable

And here’s the kicker: he’s worth every penny to CBS. Morning shows are a ad revenue goldmine. When Nate jokes about his kids or his failed cooking attempts, viewers stick around. More viewers = more money for the network. He’s an investment, not an expense.

The “But Compared To Other People…” Moment

You might be thinking, “Okay, but what about the Today show or Good Morning America?” Fair point. Savvy Guthrie is reportedly making $7 million. Robin Roberts is around $18 million. So Nate’s $3 million is almost modest in that universe. But remember: he’s the new guy. He’s been on CBS Mornings for only about three years. Give him time—and another contract negotiation—and that number will rise.

Also, let’s be honest: Nate isn’t just a paycheck to CBS. He’s a cultural bridge. He brings in younger viewers, sports fans, and that “favorite cool uncle” vibe. You can’t put a price on pure charisma, but CBS is trying—and they landed at $3 million.

Nate Burleson Readies To Co-Host 'CBS Mornings'

What Would You Do With That Money?

If I had his salary, I’d buy a second refrigerator just for snacks. But Nate is smarter. He’s donated to youth football programs, invested in real estate, and bought his mom a house. He’s also known for being shockingly down-to-earth. During breaks on set, he’ll bring coffee to the crew. That’s the kind of guy who makes $3 million feel like a steal.

So next time you see him on TV, don’t just see the suit and the smile. See the guy who spent years getting tackled, then spent years learning to talk smoothly on camera. See the guy who’s earning every dollar—and making your coffee break a little more fun.

Now, any other questions? Or can I get you a refill?