CBS and Tony Romo part ways after leave following DUI arrest
CBS announced a buyout of former NFL analyst Tony Romo, ending his tenure with the network after a leave of absence that began in July.
CBS confirmed on Friday that it has reached a mutual agreement to end its contract with former NFL quarterback and analyst Tony Romo. The network issued a brief statement noting the decision, which follows Romo’s indefinite leave that began in late July after he was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Romo had previously indicated on social media that he was working with doctors to address personal matters and hoped to return to his broadcasting role. However, CBS Sports chairman David Berson confirmed that the network negotiated a buyout, effectively ending Romo’s employment.
Industry observers noted that Romo’s performance in the broadcast booth had been perceived as declining in recent years, and that his 10-year, $180 million contract signed in 2020 was viewed as increasingly costly for the network. The departure opens a full-season audition for J.J. Watt, who assumed Romo’s duties during the leave, to become CBS’s lead NFL analyst.
The move may also affect other major sports networks, where recent changes have seen former players such as Greg Olsen and Troy Aikman reconsider their roles. Analysts suggest that if Romo seeks a new broadcasting position, he could be considered for roles at other networks, though he would likely need to demonstrate renewed preparation and expertise.
"Tony Romo is on leave from his role at CBS Sports until further notice," the network said in July.
"We have reached a mutual decision to part ways," a CBS spokesperson added.
The announcement concludes a turbulent period for Romo at CBS, which began with his high-profile debut alongside Jim Nantz in 2017 and has since seen several shifts in on-air talent across the industry.