Jim Nantz Believes Tony Romo Will Return to NFL Broadcasting
Nantz expressed confidence in Romo's future broadcasting career following the former quarterback's exit from CBS and his legal issues.
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo's former broadcasting partner at CBS Sports, believes the ex-Dallas Cowboys quarterback will eventually return to analyzing NFL games. Romo and CBS officially parted ways on October 2, after he had been on leave since his July 23 arrest in Wisconsin for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI).
Nantz, who is now partnered with NFL legend J.J. Watt in the broadcast booth, spoke about Romo's situation on the "Traina Thoughts" podcast. "I think unquestionably he will work again," Nantz said. "I don't know if it's calling games or being in studio, but he's got a lot of talent. He's got a lot of people who like him, and he's a star."
Romo, who stepped away from the spotlight following his OWI arrest, is reportedly set to receive a significant portion of the remaining $72 million on his 10-year, $180 million contract with CBS Sports. According to The Athletic, Romo and CBS reached a financial settlement, avoiding potential court proceedings.
In a statement released October 2, Romo expressed pride in his nine-year tenure at CBS Sports and his commitment to his role. "I'm going to use this time to take a break, something I've never done before, and focus on my health and my family before moving on to my next opportunity," he said. "I am grateful for my time with CBS Sports and for the continued support of my family and friends, as well as the NFL community and fans."
The former quarterback was arrested in Milwaukee on July 23 after being pulled over in his Jeep.
Bodycam footage released after his arrest showed Romo performing poorly on sobriety tests. He subsequently pleaded no contest to a civil offense for OWI in Wisconsin in September. As part of his plea deal, Romo will face a mandatory jail sentence if convicted of another OWI-related offense within the next 10 years. He also agreed to install an ignition interlock device in all his vehicles, received a fine of over $700, and had his driver's license revoked for six months. He also committed to completing an alcohol assessment program.
Romo, who played 14 seasons in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys, acknowledged his struggles with pain medication and alcohol dependency. "This morning, I faced a recent personal failure by pleading no contest to a civil offense for OWI in Wisconsin. I own this completely," he stated. He expressed his gratitude for football's lessons on resilience and honesty in the face of failure.
Romo had been on indefinite leave at CBS since his arrest in Wisconsin.
