Mackay Makes History: First Active Caddie to Fill Lead Analyst Role on NBC Sports for Mexico Open at Vidanta

This week, the PGA Tour’s Mexico Open will see the absence of Justin Thomas on the course, but it will mark a significant milestone for his caddie, Jim “Bones” Mackay, who will be stepping into a new and unprecedented role as the lead analyst for NBC Sports’ telecast of the tournament. This is the first time that an active caddie has taken on such a prominent position in a broadcasting capacity.

Earlier last year, NBC Sports bid farewell to Paul Azinger as his contract expired at the end of the season. Since then, the network has been experimenting with various voices as lead analysts, with different personalities taking turns at the helm. PGA Tour pro Kevin Kisner assumed the role at The Sentry and WM Phoenix Open, followed by former European Ryder Cup captain and SkySports and Golf Channel commentator Paul McGinley at the Hero World Challenge. Curt Byrum then took his turn as the lead analyst during the Sony Open in Hawaii, and Brandel Chamblee from Golf Channel led The American Express. These rotating voices have provided fresh perspectives and diverse insights during NBC’s telecasts.

Jim “Bones” Mackay, however, is not vying for a permanent position as a lead analyst and seeks to dispel any misconceptions. In a statement relayed through an NBC spokesman, Mackay made it clear that his upcoming TV appearance should not be interpreted as an intention to join the race for the role. He remains fully dedicated to caddying for Justin Thomas, whom he has been supporting since his return as a full-time caddie in 2022. Mackay was on the bag when Thomas claimed victory at the 2022 PGA Championship, and most recently accompanied him at the Genesis Championship, although Thomas missed the cut.

Before joining NBC in 2017 as an on-course reporter, Mackay spent an impressive 25 years caddying for the legendary Phil Mickelson. He swiftly proved himself to be among the best in the business in his on-course reporter role. Mackay has occasionally dabbled in TV work for NBC during Thomas’ off weeks, covering events such as the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship last year.

A spokesperson for NBC Sports confirmed that Mackay will be on-site as an on-course reporter on Thursday and will then transition to a three-man booth for the remaining three rounds, alongside veteran pro Brad Faxon. Steve Sands and Dan Hicks will rotate as hosts. This marks the start of an exciting seven-week span, during which NBC will broadcast a series of PGA Tour events, including the highly anticipated Players Championship. While NBC has not revealed any specific details about future lead analysts, viewers can look forward to discovering who will get a chance to occupy the prestigious big chair as the network continues to evaluate and select a permanent replacement.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the first time an active caddie has served as a lead analyst on TV?

Yes, Jim “Bones” Mackay’s role as the lead analyst for NBC Sports’ telecast of the Mexico Open marks the first time that an active caddie has filled that position in a broadcasting capacity.

Who previously held the lead analyst role for NBC Sports?

Paul Azinger was the lead analyst for NBC Sports until last year when his contract expired. Since then, NBC has been featuring various voices as lead analysts on a rotating basis.

 Is Jim Mackay planning to pursue the lead analyst position on a full-time basis?

No, Jim “Bones” Mackay has made it clear that his upcoming TV appearance should not be seen as a move to compete for the full-time lead analyst role. He remains committed to his role as Justin Thomas’ caddie.

Who else will be part of the broadcasting team during the Mexico Open?

In addition to Jim “Bones” Mackay, the NBC Sports broadcasting team for the Mexico Open will include veteran pro Brad Faxon, with Steve Sands and Dan Hicks rotating as hosts.