CBS insiders gave an update regarding the recent controversy surrounding their lead NFL game analyst, Tony Romo, as he was arrested on charges of operating a vehicle while under the influence (OWI) last week on July 23 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin 

The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback has been working with CBS as the lead color commentator since he retired from the NFL in 2017. With his recent arrest, CBS has made its stance clear on not firing Romo, while acknowledging the impact of his actions. 

“I don't want to act like it's not a big deal, because it is,” a CBS Executive said, according to Daily Mail. “But it's not going to get him fired.”

Another unnamed source told the Daily Mail that Romo would be taking a short-term step back from public appearances. But the break wouldn't be permanent as his contract runs through 2030.

“He might step back a little, short term, but he isn’t going anywhere long term,” one source revealed, according to a Daily Mail report on July 28. “That wouldn't make any sense for us at all.”

 Romo is currently under a 10-year, $180M contract signed in 2020, making him the highest-paid analyst in television history, with the deal running through the 2030 season (AAV $17M-$18M).

The four-time Pro Bowler has called three Super Bowls with CBS, with the most recent being Super Bowl LVIII in 2024.

Romo was arrested after he failed the field sobriety tests and was released later that night (July 23) after posting a bond.

Officers stopped his vehicle when he was traveling southbound on Interstate 43 after a round at the Wisconsin Amateur Championship golf tournament.  

Romo has maintained a low profile since his arrest, and officially withdrew from the 56th M&P Group Texas State Open golf tournament, which was scheduled for July 28 at Cascades Country Club in Tyler, Texas.

While Romo and his lawyer, Julius Kim, have yet to provide a comment, further legal proceedings are scheduled to be held on September 21.

Tony Romo "knows he made a terrible decision," insider reveals

A CBS insider revealed that Romo immediately contacted his CBS bosses to inform them about the incident. They believe that Romo regretted his decision to operate a vehicle while under the influence.

"He knows he made a terrible decision and is well aware of it, and he knows he disappointed not only himself, but those he works with and family," the insider said, per the same Daily Mail article. "He contacted his bosses almost immediately to let them know what had happened because he understood the story would spread quickly once it became public."

The insider revealed that Romo is focused on complying with the legal proceedings while keeping a low profile, and preparing to return for the 2026 season.

While Romo is expected to face the legal consequences of the incident, those close to him believe that it will not have a lasting impact on his broadcasting career.

How do you think CBS handled Tony Romo's situation? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit