CBS Sports has placed NFL analyst Tony Romo on leave indefinitely following his arrest last week for operating while intoxicated in Milwaukee. Romo, who is reportedly paid $18 million annually by the network, was taken off the air "until further notice," according to a statement released Friday.
Details of the arrest emerged after police bodycam footage was released, showing Romo failing multiple sobriety tests. The 46-year-old former quarterback was pulled over by police on July 23. An open container of alcohol was found on the passenger side of his vehicle, according to citations released by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office. Romo reportedly told officers he had consumed zero alcoholic drinks that day.
During sobriety tests, Romo repeatedly complained of back pain stemming from previous surgeries and requested to be let out of a police cruiser. He also refused to submit to a breath test, stating he had been advised by lawyers not to do so.
Romo was cited for unsafe passing on the right and cutting across the gore. He faces a $1,066 fine for the OWI charge and a $235 penalty for the moving violation. His next court date is scheduled for September 21, which falls during the second week of the 2026 NFL season.
JJ Watt is expected to replace Romo as lead color analyst for the time being, joining play-caller Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson. It remains unclear if Romo will return for the start of the NFL season or if he will be paid during his leave.