CBS Sports President Addresses Tony Romo's Future After OWI Arrest: "No Timetable or Final Decision"

Tony Romo’s standing with CBS Sports remains under evaluation, with the network’s president confirming there is "no timetable or final decision" regarding his future following an operating while intoxicated (OWI) arrest last month.

David Berson, president of CBS Sports, addressed questions about Romo at the "NFL on CBS" Media Day on Tuesday. Romo was previously placed on indefinite leave by the network. The announcement also noted that J.J. Watt is slated to join play-by-play veteran Jim Nantz as CBS Sports’ lead analyst for game days beginning with the 2026 NFL season.

Romo’s arrest occurred when Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office deputies apprehended him in Wisconsin. He was reportedly showing signs of impairment while driving back from a golf event.

Network Leadership Addresses Romo's Status

"It’s an evolving situation and we are still assessing," Berson responded when asked about Romo. "There is no timetable or final decision at this time."

Berson added, "I hope you can respect and appreciate this is a personal matter and a legal one for Tony."

When pressed for the reasons behind Romo’s indefinite leave during the ongoing legal process, Berson emphasized the network's priorities.

"We have to consider the impact on our image and our brand," he explained. "That’s very important to us. The focus should be and needs to be on our presentation and this great product and not on any others."

He concluded, "Fortunately, we have a deep bench and everybody is stepping up."

Details of the Incident and Upcoming Legal Proceedings

Romo faces charges for operating while intoxicated after performing poorly on field sobriety tests. Additional charges include possessing an open bottle of alcohol in his vehicle and unsafe passing.

His court appearance is scheduled for September 21, just eight days after CBS Sports’ initial NFL broadcast of the season.

Contractual Implications and Prior Scrutiny

Romo is currently halfway through a substantial 10-year, $180 million contract with CBS as their primary NFL analyst. He is reportedly still owed $72 million from the deal, which he signed in 2020.

Reports from late July indicated that Romo's long-term future with CBS was already uncertain, with questions arising even before his arrest about whether he would continue as the lead analyst beyond the 2026 season. CBS is also set to broadcast the Super Bowl in 2028.

In recent seasons, discussions have emerged regarding Romo’s preparation and his on-air chemistry with Nantz, with some critics suggesting it has not been as strong as in previous years.

It has also been reported that Romo’s contract includes a standard morals clause, which CBS could potentially invoke to terminate his employment based on the arrest incident. However, given the significant amount still owed, his legal team would almost certainly challenge such a move.