Tony Romo, a former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and current CBS NFL analyst, has pleaded no contest to a charge of operating while intoxicated (OWI). The plea comes after his arrest on July 23 following a traffic stop in Wisconsin.
Following the plea, Romo was ordered to forfeit his driving privileges for six months and complete an alcohol assessment program. He also faces a fine of $834. Additionally, an interlock device will be required on any vehicle he owns or operates for at least one year after his license is reinstated.
Romo was arrested while driving south on Interstate 43 in Wisconsin. Court records indicate citations released by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office stated Romo performed poorly on field sobriety tests. During an inventory of his vehicle before it was towed, an open bottle of an alcoholic beverage was found in the passenger seat of his black Jeep.
Body camera footage showed Romo informing deputies that he was coming from a golf course and en route to visit his grandparents when he was stopped. A deputy noted that Romo exhibited signs of impairment, including red, glassy eyes and the odor of an alcoholic beverage.
In a statement posted to Instagram, Romo apologized for his actions. He cited the pain from multiple back surgeries during his playing career, which led to a dependence on pain medication and subsequently an over-reliance on alcohol. Romo stated that he takes full responsibility for his failures and is not using these issues as an excuse.
He also mentioned he is working with medical professionals to address his health and make necessary changes. Romo thanked his family, friends, and the NFL community for their support and requested privacy during this period.
CBS Sports has placed Romo on leave from his role as lead NFL analyst. CBS Sports president David Berson has stated there is no current timeline for a decision regarding Romo's future with the network. JJ Watt will join play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson on CBS' lead NFL team during Romo’s absence.