Ryan Leaf challenges Tony Romo's reference to back pain in arrest statement

Tony Romo said his recent operating-while-intoxicated arrest was partly caused by chronic pain from multiple back surgeries he underwent as a player, which he said led to dependence on medication and alcohol. In a statement posted on Instagram, Romo described the surgeries as ending his career early and causing "constant, debilitating pain" that contributed to his over-reliance on alcohol.

Former quarterback Ryan Leaf, who has spoken publicly about his own recovery from opioid addiction, responded on "The Dan Patrick Show" that Romo should not attribute his conduct to any factor other than himself. Leaf said, "I used to think football was the problem. No, it’s a me problem. Football was never the problem; football gave me everything. I had to figure it out," and added that the paragraph about "debilitating back pain" was unnecessary.

Romo was arrested on July 23 in Wisconsin after police alleged he was driving under the influence while leaving a golf course. A breath test showed a blood-alcohol concentration of .15. He faced four citations, pleaded no contest to the OWI charge, and had the other three citations dismissed as part of a plea agreement. The sentencing included a six-month loss of driving privileges.

In a follow-up statement, Romo said he is working with doctors on his health, expressed gratitude to his family and the NFL community, and asked for privacy while he focuses on recovery and a potential return to broadcasting.