Tony Romo, the lead NFL analyst for CBS and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, pleaded no contest Tuesday to a civil offense of operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) in Wisconsin. Following the plea, Romo released a statement on Instagram to his 658,000 followers admitting to an over-reliance on alcohol
as a means of treating chronic pain.
Court Mandates and Legal Penalties
The plea follows Romo’s arrest on July 23 in Milwaukee County. According to court records, the legal consequences include a six-month revocation of his driving privileges and a fine. While some records list the fine as $784, others cite it as $834.
As part of the resolution, Romo is required to complete an Alcohol Assessment Program. He must also install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns or operates, or any vehicle registered in his name. This interlock requirement will remain in effect for at least one year after his license is reissued, according to NY Daily News.
Details of the July Arrest
Romo was taken into custody after a traffic stop while driving southbound on Interstate 43 in Wisconsin. Body camera footage reveals Romo told deputies he had been at a golf course and was traveling to visit his grandparents. A deputy noted that Romo had red glassy eyes
and a strong odor of an intoxicating alcoholic beverage.
Police records indicate that an open bottle of an alcoholic beverage was found on the passenger side of the vehicle. Although Romo reportedly told deputies he had not had anything to drink that night, he was cited for refusing to take a test for intoxication. In addition to the OWI charge, court records show Romo was issued citations for unsafe passing on the right side and possessing open intoxicants inside his vehicle.
Struggles with Pain and Dependency
In his public statement, Romo characterized the incident as a “recent personal failure” and stated, I own this completely
. He explained that his struggle with substance use was rooted in the end of his playing career.
Romo stated that multiple back surgeries ended his NFL career earlier than expected and resulted in “constant, debilitating pain.” According to Romo, this pain led to a dependence on pain medication; his subsequent attempts to stop using those medications resulted in his reliance on alcohol. He emphasized that these details are not an excuse, stating, These are my failures, and I take responsibility for them
.
Romo noted he is currently working with a team of doctors to address his health and make necessary changes. He expressed gratitude for the support of his family, friends, and the NFL community, including owners, coaches, and players.
Impact on CBS Sports Career
CBS Sports placed Romo on leave on July 31 following the arrest. While Romo expressed his intention to eventually return to the broadcasting booth, his future with the network remains uncertain. CBS Sports president David Berson stated last month that there was no timetable or final decision
regarding Romo’s status, noting the need to consider the impact on the company’s brand and image.
Romo reportedly has four years and $72 million remaining on his contract. In his absence, J.J. Watt has been serving as the analyst on the lead CBS NFL broadcasting team alongside sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson and play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz. The team is scheduled to begin the season at U.S. Bank Stadium for the game between the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings.
