Tony Romo Reaches Financial Settlement with CBS After Departure
The former NFL analyst is expected to receive a significant portion of his remaining contract following his exit from the network.
Tony Romo has reportedly reached a financial settlement with CBS Sports, securing a substantial portion of the remaining $72 million on his contract following his departure from the network. Romo, who retired from the NFL and transitioned to broadcasting, had signed a 10-year, $180 million deal with CBS in 2020.
The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback stepped away from his role permanently last week, three months after being placed on indefinite leave. This leave followed his arrest for operating while intoxicated (OWI) in Milwaukee on July 23. JJ Watt replaced Romo for the start of the current NFL season.
According to The Athletic, Romo and CBS agreed to a settlement before the announcement of his departure, avoiding potential legal proceedings. Sources close to Romo and CBS Sports suggest he will likely be paid a good portion of the remainder of his contract.
Romo stated that he intends to use this time to "focus on my health and family" before pursuing future opportunities. He expressed pride in his nine years at CBS Sports, emphasizing his dedication to his role as a game analyst. He also thanked CBS Sports, his family, friends, the NFL community, and fans for their support.
In September, Romo accepted a plea deal in Wisconsin related to his July arrest. The plea deal includes a requirement for mandatory jail time if he is convicted of another OWI-related offense within the next 10 years. He also agreed to install an ignition interlock device in all his vehicles, pay a fine exceeding $700, and had his driver's license revoked for six months. He also committed to completing an alcohol assessment program.
Prosecutors agreed to drop other citations, including unsafe passing and possession of open intoxicants, in exchange for his plea. Romo had previously spoken about his struggles with pain medication and alcohol dependency, taking accountability for the OWI incident.
Romo recently made a public appearance at a golf tournament in Oklahoma, attempting to qualify for professional play, but missed a qualification spot by three shots.