Tony Romo Parts Ways with CBS Sports Amid Controversy

On Friday, CBS Sports announced that Tony Romo would no longer be with the network. Romo had been on indefinite leave following his arrest for driving while intoxicated in July. CBS issued a statement saying, “CBS Sports and Tony Romo have mutually agreed to part ways. We thank Tony for his contributions over the past nine years and wish him the best moving forward.”

Industry sources had earlier predicted Romo’s departure, accelerated by the DWI incident. CBS had already decided to move in a different direction before the arrest. The company’s next Super Bowl broadcast, slated for 2028 under the new Skydance ownership, will not feature Romo as Jim Nantz’s lead analyst. Romo’s recent performances had attracted criticism, reaching a low at Super Bowl LVIII when he mishandled a crucial call.

The key question for CBS now is Romo’s replacement. Currently, the network has future Hall of Famer J.J. Watt as Jim Nantz’s color analyst. Elevated to the lead position following Romo’s suspension, Watt’s reviews have been mixed. While some praise his performance, his long-term status may hinge on available candidates.

Possible replacements include Troy Aikman and Greg Olsen. Aikman’s contract with ESPN expires after the upcoming Super Bowl, and despite a new deal with Joe Buck, ESPN and Aikman have not finalized an extension. Known as a premier NFL game analyst, Aikman could command a contract over $25 million annually. Olsen, younger and experienced, having called Super Bowl LVII for Fox, could also be a viable option.

Watt’s existing chemistry with Nantz gives him an advantage. Aikman, though experienced, might take time to adjust to a new partnership after decades with Buck. Olsen’s adaptability and familiarity with various partners could prove beneficial.

Should Aikman or Olsen become unavailable, networks like Netflix and Amazon might express interest. ESPN’s future actions regarding their analyst lineup remain a significant factor. Meanwhile, Amazon has reportedly secured Kirk Herbstreit as their lead NFL analyst.