CBS broadcaster Tony Romo placed on indefinite leave after OWI arrest

CBS Sports has placed former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo on leave "until further notice" after he was arrested in Wisconsin on suspicion of operating while intoxicated. The network has not indicated a timeline for his return, and Romo is scheduled to appear in court on September 21.

According to a report by The Athletic, CBS has already assigned former NFL defensive end J.J. Watt to fill Romo’s spot on the network’s primary NFL broadcast alongside Jim Nantz. The report notes that Romo’s contract includes a moral clause and that financial considerations may influence any decision about his future role.

CBS had slated Romo to attend three NFL-related events later this month, including a talent seminar, the Week 1 Vikings-Packers game on September 13, and the Week 3 Cowboys-Ravens game in Brazil on September 27. The outlet indicated that Romo is currently not expected to participate in those events.

During the arrest, officers said Romo claimed he had not consumed alcohol and was on his way to visit family. Police cited him for an open alcoholic beverage in the vehicle, unsafe passage on the right, and refusal to submit to an intoxication test. Romo’s legal team has not commented publicly.

The situation adds a challenge for CBS as it prepares its NFL coverage schedule, with the network evaluating possible adjustments to Romo’s on-air responsibilities.