Tony Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and lead NFL analyst for CBS Sports, has officially parted ways with the network. This decision comes about a month after Romo pleaded no contest to charges related to operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Romo had been on leave since his arrest on July 23 in Wisconsin. He began his career at CBS Sports in 2017, where he quickly became known for his insightful analysis and engaging commentary during NFL broadcasts.
In a statement released by CBS Sports, the network said, “CBS Sports and Tony Romo have mutually agreed to part ways. We thank Tony for his contributions over the past nine years and wish him the best moving forward.”
During Romo’s absence, former NFL star JJ Watt stepped in to join play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson on the lead NFL team at CBS. Watt will continue in that role as CBS maintains its current lineup.
Reflecting on his time at CBS, Romo stated, “I’m proud of what I accomplished at CBS Sports over the last nine years. I approached my role as a game analyst the way I’ve approached everything in my life — with a desire to win and be the best that I can be. I’m going to use this time to take a break, something I’ve never done before, and focus on my health and my family before moving on to my next opportunity. I am grateful for my time with CBS Sports and for the continued support of my family and friends, as well as the NFL community and fans.”
Romo’s legal troubles began when he was stopped while driving on Interstate 43 in Wisconsin. After his arrest, he pleaded no contest to operating while intoxicated on September 1 and issued an apology for his actions. According to court records from Milwaukee County, he lost his driving privileges for six months and was required to complete an alcohol assessment program.
In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Romo expressed, “The past month has been difficult, but it has also been personally significant. It has required me to confront and own my mistakes fully — to the Lord, to myself, to my family, and now to the public.”
Romo also shared that multiple back surgeries during his playing career caused him “constant, debilitating pain.” This pain led to a dependence on pain medication, which he acknowledged contributed to his reliance on alcohol. “None of this is an excuse,” he stated. “These are my failures, and I take responsibility for them.”
The 46-year-old former quarterback, who played for the Cowboys from 2004 to 2016 and made four Pro Bowl appearances, is now focusing on his health and is working with medical professionals to make necessary changes in his life.
___
See AP’s full NFL coverage here
