Tony Romo's prominent role as the lead NFL announcer for CBS is in jeopardy following his recent arrest on suspicion of operating while under the influence (OWI) in Wisconsin. The network has placed Romo on indefinite leave, and his return to the No. 1 broadcast booth alongside Jim Nantz is uncertain.
CBS has already moved J.J. Watt into Romo's vacated spot on the "A" broadcast, signaling that the network is not automatically overlooking the incident. Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reported that Romo will need to make a significant case to regain his position.
Romo, who is reportedly under contract for another four years worth $72 million, has a moral clause in his deal, which typically factors into decisions made during such situations. The timing of the arrest also presents challenges, as NFL training camps are underway, and CBS is now managing a public relations issue involving one of its most visible personalities.
Romo had been scheduled to attend several key NFL-related events for CBS, including a seminar for on-air talent with a media session, the Week 1 Vikings-Packers game on September 13, and a Week 3 Cowboys-Ravens matchup in Brazil on September 27. However, according to Marchand's report, CBS does not currently want Romo present at these events. His court date for the OWI charge is set for September 21 in Wisconsin.
Adding to Romo's difficulties, Marchand also pointed to what he described as "poor performance" in recent years and a reputation for not dedicating sufficient preparation to his broadcasting duties. The combination of the OWI arrest, potential absence from early-season games, and past performance critiques has created a challenging situation for the 46-year-old announcer.
Marchand suggested that the arrest could continue to cause headaches for CBS if Romo faces further issues. While a demotion to a "B" or "C" broadcast team, or even a studio role, is a possibility, any such move would require negotiation between Romo and the network.
During the traffic stop that led to his arrest, Romo reportedly told officers he had consumed "zero" drinks and was en route to visit his grandparents. He also received a citation for "unsafe passage on the right." An officer stated there was an "open bottle of an alcoholic beverage" on the passenger side of the vehicle and that Romo did not perform well on field sobriety tests. He also received a citation for refusing to take a test for intoxication after his arrest, telling officers, "I’ve heard from all the lawyers don’t ever do that."