Chad Johnson Offers Services to CBS After Tony Romo's Departure

Retired NFL receiver Chad Johnson has made his availability known for a potential analyst role at CBS following the network's decision to part ways with Tony Romo in its No. 1 NFL broadcast booth. Johnson posted on X, formerly Twitter, "Yo @NFLonCBS if you’re ready I’m ready," accompanied by a microphone emoji, in response to news of Romo's departure.

Romo's exit from CBS comes after his indefinite leave initiated by the network subsequent to his July 23 arrest in Milwaukee on suspicion of operating while intoxicated. J.J. Watt, who had been filling in for Romo, will continue in the No. 1 booth alongside play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson for the remainder of the current season.

Johnson, who co-hosts the "Nightcap" podcast with Shannon Sharpe, has no prior experience in an NFL broadcast booth. His previous broadcasting work includes serving as an analyst for Fox Sports' coverage of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, appearances on ESPN's "First Take," and work as an analyst for The CW Network's "Inside the NFL."

Romo, 46, reportedly left approximately $72 million on the table from his 10-year, $180 million contract with CBS. While the financial terms of the split were not disclosed, The Athletic reported that Romo and CBS reached a financial settlement, indicating he would likely receive a significant portion of the remaining contract value. Romo's representative stated that the former Cowboys quarterback will take a break to focus on his health and family. He recently pleaded no contest through his lawyer to the OWI charge, with other citations dismissed as part of the agreement with prosecutors.