CBS Sports confirmed on Friday that Tony Romo will no longer be with the network. Previously, Romo faced an indefinite leave from CBS following an arrest for driving while intoxicated. “CBS Sports and Tony Romo have mutually agreed to part ways,” the network’s statement said. “We are grateful for Tony’s contributions over the past nine years and wish him success in his future endeavors.”
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Reports from OutKick indicated that industry insiders did not expect Romo to return. His DWI incident hastened a decision CBS had already contemplated: ending its association with Romo.
CBS will cover its next Super Bowl in 2028, marking the first such event under Skydance ownership. The network showed no intention to start a new Super Bowl cycle with Romo as the lead analyst partnered with Jim Nantz. Romo’s commentary received increasing criticism over recent seasons from both fans and the media. A significant error during Super Bowl LVIII, where Romo miscalled Patrick Mahomes’ crucial touchdown, underscored his declining performance.
The focus now shifts to who will permanently replace Romo. With the NFL reportedly owning a stake in CBS, the network’s role as a key broadcaster is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.
For now, J.J. Watt remains Jim Nantz’s color analyst. CBS promoted Watt from its secondary team following Romo’s suspension. While reviews about Watt’s performance vary, those who commend his work are in agreement.
The longer-term status of Watt’s role may hinge not just on performance, but also on the availability of commentators. Both ESPN’s Troy Aikman and Fox’s Greg Olsen have contracts expiring after February’s Super Bowl. Aikman, working with Joe Buck, stands as one of the top analysts and could command a significant salary if CBS pursues him aggressively.
Olsen, at age 41, also presents a strong option. He has notable experience from calling Super Bowl LVII for Fox. Though ESPN remains a possible destination for him, hiring Aikman remains a higher priority.
Watt offers a key advantage with his established rapport alongside Nantz. While Aikman might quickly adapt to new partnerships, Olsen has a proven track record of building chemistry with different play-by-play announcers.
If neither Aikman nor Olsen finds new roles at ESPN or CBS, Netflix and Amazon might emerge as new homes for these talents. Amazon has reportedly renewed its contract with Kirk Herbstreit as their lead analyst.