Tony Romo Expected to Leave CBS Amid Legal Issues
Sports business insiders say the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback is unlikely to return to CBS, with negotiations focusing on a possible settlement of his remaining $72 million contract.
Tony Romo remains on a leave of absence from CBS Sports after his July arrest for operating while intoxicated in Wisconsin. The network has scheduled former NFL defensive end J.J. Watt to join its lead broadcast team for the opening week, suggesting a possible permanent replacement if his performance is satisfactory.
Romo's contract, which runs four more years and is valued at roughly $72 million, includes an annual salary of about $18 million. CBS cited concerns about the impact of Romo's legal troubles on its brand, referencing a statement by CBS Sports president David Berson about protecting the network's image.
Sports business analyst John Ourand told the "Puck’s Powers That Be" podcast that negotiations are likely to focus on a settlement amount that would allow Romo to depart without further dispute. He added that the probability of Romo returning to on-air duties is "95 percent" low.
Romo's representatives have indicated to media outlets that he is taking "proactive steps" to resolve his legal matters, and the former quarterback posted on Instagram acknowledging responsibility for the arrest and mentioning past substance-abuse challenges.
While Romo has not ruled out a return to broadcasting, the consensus among industry observers is that CBS will seek to end the relationship, potentially through a buyout rather than a full contract termination.