CBS does not plan to fire top NFL analyst Tony Romo following his recent operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) arrest in Wisconsin, according to a report by the Daily Mail. However, Romo may take a temporary step back from some public appearances as he addresses the situation.
A source close to the situation told the Daily Mail that Romo "might step back a little, short term, but he isn’t going anywhere long term." The network considers him integral to its broadcasting team.
Romo was pulled over on suspicion of OWI on Thursday evening in Wisconsin, according to the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office. An inside source noted that Romo did not cause harm to himself or others and expressed remorse for his decision, understanding the disappointment it has caused.
Romo reportedly contacted his employers shortly after the incident. He has already canceled an upcoming appearance at a golf tournament and intends to maintain a low profile in the coming weeks to focus on preparing for the upcoming NFL season.
This incident follows Romo's participation in the Wisconsin Amateur Championship, where he had recently completed a round of golf. Reports indicate that Romo declined to take an intoxication test following his arrest.
His court date is scheduled for September 21, which falls on the Monday of the second week of the NFL season. Romo is currently under a ten-year contract extension with CBS worth $180 million, set to expire in 2030. He is preparing for his tenth season as the lead NFL analyst for CBS, working alongside Jim Nantz. While Romo has faced criticism for his broadcasting abilities in the past, CBS has historically supported him, citing strong ratings.
"I don’t want to act like it’s not a big deal, because it is. But it’s not going to get him fired," a CBS executive told the Daily Mail.