CBS Sports is keeping Tony Romo on leave indefinitely with no timetable for a decision on his future as the network’s top NFL analyst, President David Berson said Tuesday.
Speaking at the “NFL on CBS” Media Day previewing the 2026 season, Berson said Romo’s status has not changed since the network placed him on leave “until further notice” on July 31. “It’s an evolving situation and we are still assessing,” Berson said. “There is no timetable or final decision at this time.”
He added that the matter is personal and legal for Romo and asked for respect on that front.
Romo, 46, was arrested July 23 in Wisconsin and charged with operating while intoxicated, a traffic violation rather than a criminal charge that carries fines of up to $1,568.50. CBS acted after additional details of the arrest emerged.
Berson explained the decision to sideline Romo before the legal process concludes by citing the potential impact on the network’s image and brand.
“That’s very important to us. The focus should be and needs to be on our presentation and this great product and not on any others,” he said. “Fortunately, we have a deep bench and everybody is stepping up.” J.J. Watt has replaced Romo as Jim Nantz’s partner in the top booth.
Romo is reportedly owed $72 million over the next four years on the remaining portion of a 10-year, $180 million contract CBS signed with him in 2020, when he was widely viewed as the top analyst in the game for his ability to anticipate plays. That reputation has taken hits in recent seasons amid questions about preparation and listener fatigue with his style. His deal includes a standard morals clause, though it remains unclear whether the arrest would allow CBS to terminate the contract for cause.