Tony Romo’s Departure from CBS Sports Could Be Permanent

Tony Romo’s indefinite leave from CBS Sports may not just be a temporary break, and it might be turning into a more lasting leave of absence.

After Romo’s arrest for OWI on July 23, CBS executives and other network personalities have mostly stayed mum on the subject, likely for legal and professional reasons. However, former CBS commentator Boomer Esiason felt free to speak up about it during Wednesday’s WFAN show.

“It’s just speculation considering everything, but if I were to guess, I’d say it’s possibly over for him,” Esiason mentioned. “He might find himself somewhere else, trying to make things right.”

Esiason, who was part of CBS’ pregame show “The NFL Today” for over two decades, recounted how Phil Simms was demoted back in 2017 to make way for Romo as the lead analyst. At the time, Tony Gonzalez had just stepped down from his partner role, which likely influenced the decision.

Currently, there’s no comparable position available for Romo at CBS, especially since Russell Wilson now holds a spot on the show.

“They probably offered Phil a lesser role, like third or fourth. That’s pretty insulting, especially for someone who had been a lead analyst for two decades,” Esiason commented.

While CBS hasn’t completely cut ties with Romo yet, the network has started making significant shifts. Recently, they announced that JJ Watt will be joining Jim Nantz in the top NFL booth, a position Watt previously held with Ian Eagle.

Nantz, Watt, and CBS Sports President David Berson discussed these changes on Tuesday, but they didn’t offer any specifics about Romo’s situation. Each of them expressed their support for Romo, especially Nantz, who has partnered with him for nearly ten years.

“Tony is a great friend who goes back with me to 2011. I was even at his wedding,” Nantz shared. “I mean, this guy isn’t the same person I met in 2017 when I joined the booth. He’s been a true friend, and he will always be.”

Berson mentioned that no final determination has been made regarding Romo’s future and that they have no immediate plans to address the remaining $72 million on his contract. Reportedly, his contract has typical ethics guidelines, but it remains unclear if his arrest falls under those provisions.

“When we make decisions, we really need to think about how it will affect our image and brand,” said Berson. “That’s a key consideration for us. We want to concentrate on our presentation and product quality, rather than distractions. Thankfully, we have a strong team that has stepped up admirably.”

Regarding the incident, Romo was driving through Wisconsin during peak traffic when he told law enforcement he had “crossed a Gore trail” while en route to see his “grandma and grandpa,” as per a citation obtained by the Post.

He reportedly declined a field sobriety test, didn’t perform well when one was conducted, and had an open alcoholic beverage in his vehicle, according to sources.

The fine for this incident amounted to $1,568.50, classified as a traffic violation in Wisconsin rather than a criminal offense. Romo’s court appearance is set for September 21st.

He has yet to publicly comment on his arrest or current contract situation.