Full Breakdown
Tony Romo’s OWI Arrest and Its Fallout for CBS Sports
8/28/2026, 10:34:56 PM
Core Event
On July 23 Tony Romo, former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and CBS lead NFL analyst, was stopped by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office on Interstate 43 in Wisconsin. Deputies said Romo performed poorly on standard field-sobriety tests and was arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI). The arrest led to an initial citation for refusing a chemical test on July 27 and, on August 27, three additional citations: first-offense operating while intoxicated, unsafe passing on the right, and possessing open intoxicants in his vehicle.
Background & Context
Romo retired from the NFL in 2016 and began broadcasting in 2017. He serves as CBS’s lead color analyst for NFL games under a 10-year, $180 million contract, with $72 million remaining through 2026.
Timeline
- July 23 – Arrest on OWI suspicion.
- July 27 – Citation for refusal to take an intoxication test.
- July 31 – CBS places Romo on indefinite leave.
- August 27 – Three new citations added.
- September 21 – Scheduled court appearance for all citations.
Data & Statistics
- Total citations: four.
- Wisconsin law treats a first-offense OWI as a civil matter, typically carrying a fine of $150–$300.
Official Statements & Responses
The network’s spokesperson confirmed Romo was placed on leave “until further notice.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Tony accepts full responsibility for his actions and has taken proactive steps to ensure that this isolated civil matter is properly resolved. We are working with local authorities to bring this matter to a close and we are communicating with CBS about next steps.” — Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, a spokesperson for Romo's team
- “It’s an evolving situation and therefore we are still assessing,” — David Berson, CBS sports president
Why It Matters / Impact
Romo’s suspension forces CBS to reconfigure its lead NFL broadcast team for the 2026 season, pairing J.J. Watt with play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson. The network’s brand considerations, as articulated by Berson, highlight the reputational stakes of retaining a high-profile analyst amid legal controversy.
The contract’s “morals clause” could allow CBS to terminate the agreement without paying the remaining $72 million, a point noted by industry observers.
What’s Next
Romo is scheduled to appear in court on September 21 to address the four citations. CBS has not set a date for a decision on his employment status, and Berson reiterated that the situation remains “evolving.” The network’s next steps will likely be announced after the court hearing and internal review.
