Tony Romo’s time in the CBS Sports broadcast booth has officially come to an end.
The network and the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback mutually agreed to part ways on October 2, ending a nine-year run as CBS’ lead NFL game analyst. The decision comes two months after Romo was arrested in Wisconsin on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Romo had been on leave from the network since late July, with former NFL star J.J. Watt stepping in alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson.
CBS confirmed that Watt would remain on its top broadcast team for the rest of the 2026 season, bringing an end to Romo’s tenure in the booth.
Tony Romo Addresses His Departure From CBS
Romo released a statement following the announcement, expressing pride in what he accomplished during his time at CBS while making it clear that his immediate focus would be on his health and family.
“I’m proud of what I accomplished at CBS Sports over the last nine years,” Romo said in his statement.
The former quarterback also indicated that he plans to take a break from broadcasting before deciding what comes next in his career.
Romo joined CBS in 2017, shortly after retiring from the NFL. His transition from the field to the broadcast booth initially generated considerable excitement, as he quickly developed a reputation for anticipating plays and explaining offensive concepts before they unfolded.
His early success helped make him one of the most recognizable voices covering the NFL. However, his departure leaves questions about what the future holds for a broadcaster who once appeared positioned to remain at the top of the industry for years.
Romo’s Arrest Led to Leave of Absence
The circumstances surrounding Romo’s exit began on July 23, when he was stopped by law enforcement while driving in Wisconsin.
According to reporting on the incident, officers suspected Romo of operating his vehicle while intoxicated. He was arrested and subsequently placed on leave by CBS Sports on July 31.
The former Cowboys quarterback pleaded no contest to an operating-while-intoxicated charge on September 1. A court revoked his driving privileges for six months and ordered him to complete an alcohol assessment program.
Following his plea, Romo publicly addressed the incident and accepted responsibility for his actions.
He also discussed the physical challenges that followed his playing career, explaining that multiple back surgeries had left him dealing with persistent pain. Romo said that pain contributed to a dependence on prescription pain medication and that his efforts to stop taking those medications led to an over-reliance on alcohol.
Romo stressed that these circumstances did not excuse his actions and said he was working with doctors to address his health.
J.J. Watt Takes Over CBS’ Top NFL Broadcast Team
Watt stepped into Romo’s role during his absence, partnering with Nantz and Wolfson on CBS’ premier NFL broadcast crew.
The former Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals defensive end had already gained experience in television, joining CBS in 2023 as a studio analyst before moving into game commentary.
Watt’s playing résumé gives him plenty of credibility. A three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, he recorded 114.5 sacks during his 12-season career and established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players of his generation.
CBS subsequently confirmed that Watt would remain with Nantz and Wolfson for the remainder of the season.
On October 22, the network announced that Watt had signed a multiyear agreement to become its permanent lead NFL game analyst, giving the broadcast team a longer-term future following Romo’s departure.
The move represents a significant opportunity for Watt, who has quickly moved from his playing career into one of the most prominent broadcasting positions in professional football.
What’s Next for Tony Romo?
Romo’s broadcasting future remains uncertain, at least for now.
Before his departure, he had spent nearly a decade as one of the NFL’s highest-profile television analysts. His ability to break down plays and predict offensive decisions helped distinguish him from traditional color commentators, particularly during his early seasons with CBS.
Whether he eventually returns to broadcasting will depend on his personal circumstances and future career decisions. For now, Romo has indicated that he intends to prioritize his health and family before considering another opportunity.
His exit also closes a significant chapter in his professional life. Romo spent his entire NFL playing career with the Cowboys from 2004 through 2016, earning four Pro Bowl selections before moving into broadcasting.
For CBS, the transition is already underway. Watt has secured the lead analyst position on a permanent basis, while Romo begins a new chapter away from the broadcast booth.
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