CBS NFL analyst and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has pleaded no contest to a charge of operating while intoxicated (OWI) following his arrest in July. In a statement issued after the incident, Romo expressed regret for his actions and the subsequent legal issues, acknowledging the challenges he has faced since the incident.
Romo was arrested on July 23 after a traffic stop while driving south on Interstate 43 in Wisconsin. Following the arrest, CBS suspended him from his role as the network's lead NFL analyst. According to court records from Milwaukee County, Romo lost his driving privileges for six months and has been ordered to complete an alcohol assessment program as a part of his conviction.
As part of the penalties, Romo must pay $834 and have an interlock device installed in any vehicle he owns or operates. This order will remain for at least one year after he is reinstated with a valid driver's license. Initially, he received additional citations for possessing open intoxicants in a motor vehicle, unsafe passing, and refusing to submit to a sobriety test; however, those citations have since been dismissed.
In his public apology, Romo reflected on the past month as both difficult and personally significant. He stated, "It has required me to confront and own my mistakes fully—to the Lord, to myself, to my family, and now to the public." Romo cited his battle with chronic pain from multiple back surgeries, which led to an over-dependence on pain medication and, ultimately, over-reliance on alcohol. He emphasized that these circumstances do not excuse his behavior and took full accountability for his actions.
Romo mentioned that he is currently working with a team of doctors to address his health issues and is committed to making necessary changes in his life. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from family, friends, and the NFL community during this challenging time. "As I turn my attention to my health, my family, and, in time, my return to CBS, I kindly ask for privacy during this period," Romo added.
In terms of his career trajectory, Romo has been a significant figure in NFL broadcasting since his retirement from professional football, where he made four Pro Bowl appearances during his tenure with the Cowboys from 2004 to 2016. He remains the franchise's all-time leader in career touchdown passes with 248, although his record for career passing yards (34,183) was surpassed by Dak Prescott last season.
While Romo is on leave from CBS, analyst J.J. Watt has joined play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson to form the lead NFL team for the network. Their first game together is scheduled for September 13, when the Minnesota Vikings host the Green Bay Packers.
Body camera footage from the July arrest revealed Romo's demeanor during the interaction with law enforcement, including a comment about coming from a golf course and heading to visit his grandparents. He exhibited physical signs of impairment, such as red, glassy eyes and the odor of alcohol. All these details contributed to the charges against him, illustrating the seriousness of driving under the influence.
Overall, Romo’s situation highlights issues of health, responsibility, and the complexities faced by public figures dealing with personal challenges while under public scrutiny.
