Jerry Jones Defends Romo After Drunk Driving Arrest and CBS Exit

Tony Romo’s 2026 has become a whirlwind of professional and personal setbacks. On October 2, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback was officially parted ways with CBS Sports, just hours after being disqualified from a Korn Ferry Tour event in Oklahoma due to a scoring discrepancy ^[2]. The network confirmed the split in a statement, calling it a mutual decision, while thanking Romo for nine years of contributions.

Romo, 46, had been on indefinite leave since his July arrest for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI), which he later pleaded no contest to ^[2]. The incident, coupled with revelations about his reliance on pain medication following multiple back surgeries, has prompted a public reckoning. In a September Instagram post, Romo admitted, "I own this completely," citing pain management struggles that led to alcohol overuse.

Despite the fallout, Jerry Jones, the Dallas Cowboys owner and longtime mentor, has remained a vocal supporter. Speaking on 105.3 The Fan’s ‘Shan and RJ,’ Jones praised Romo as a ‘hell of a man’ and declared he has ‘the best future’ of anyone he knows ^[1]. Jones acknowledged Romo’s mistakes but emphasized his potential for redemption, calling their relationship ‘one of the most valued’ on a personal level.

Romo’s departure from CBS comes after a 10-year, $180 million contract signed in 2020, though he will still receive much of the $72 million remaining on the deal ^[1]. He has announced a break from broadcasting to focus on his health and family, saying he’s never taken time off before ^[2].

Meanwhile, J.J. Watt has taken over Romo’s spot in the CBS booth alongside Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson ^[1]. The golf disqualification, while inconsequential to his tournament outcome, added to the day’s misfortunes. Romo reportedly signed a scorecard with a 4 on hole 16 and 5 on hole 17, but a review found he actually shot a 5 on both, leading to automatic disqualification ^[2].

What happens next remains uncertain. Romo has not confirmed any new media plans, but with his reputation intact among some key figures and a substantial financial cushion, his comeback may be possible.