CBS Sports leaves Romo’s future unresolved as Watt assumes lead NFL booth
With the legal case pending and contract obligations remaining, CBS is prioritising brand stability and programming certainty ahead of the regular season.
CBS Sports president David Berson has confirmed there is no timetable or final decision regarding Tony Romo’s return as the network’s lead NFL analyst. The statement was made during the network’s annual NFL Media Day in Manhattan, where Berson described the situation as evolving and noted that the network is still assessing Romo’s future while balancing its brand image and programming needs.
Romo has been on leave since his arrest in Wisconsin in July on suspicion of operating a vehicle while under the influence. Following the incident, CBS announced on 31 July that the former quarterback would remain away from his broadcasting duties until further notice. The network has since restructured its lead broadcast team to ensure operational stability during this period of uncertainty.
During Romo’s absence, JJ Watt has been elevated to the lead NFL booth alongside Jim Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson. The trio is scheduled to broadcast their first regular-season game on 13 September, when the Minnesota Vikings host the Green Bay Packers. This reshuffle provides the network with an established lead crew as it prepares for the upcoming season.
Watt, a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, joined CBS in 2023 and spent two seasons as an analyst on The NFL Today. He previously moved into the network’s No. 2 booth last season alongside Ian Eagle before being promoted to the Nantz crew. The internal adjustments also saw Ross Tucker move into Watt’s former position on the No. 2 booth.
The decision to proceed without a confirmed return date for Romo involves significant contractual considerations. Reports indicate that Romo signed a 10-year, $180 million deal with CBS in 2020, with approximately four years and $72 million remaining on the agreement. Berson emphasised that while the network must consider the impact on its reputation, the focus of its NFL coverage remains on the games and the network’s presentation rather than the legal proceedings.
