Former NFL quarterback and CBS broadcaster Tony Romo faces three new Milwaukee citations for first-offense operating while intoxicated, unsafe passing, and possessing open intoxicants. The August filings follow his July traffic stop and leave from the network, leaving his broadcasting future uncertain as legal proceedings continue toward a September court date.
More than a month after his arrest on an interstate bridge in Milwaukee, former Cowboys quarterback and CBS broadcaster Tony Romo has been hit with formal charges. Court records show that the district attorney filed three distinct citations against him, compounding the fallout from the July 23 traffic stop.
The legal developments arrive as CBS continues to navigate a major lineup reshuffle for its top NFL broadcast crew. While the network evaluates its options, Romo’s legal team has stepped forward to address the situation publicly for the first time.
Milwaukee Court Filings Detail Three New Citations
Those filings expand upon the initial traffic stop conducted by the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office on Interstate 43. Deputies pulled over Romo’s vehicle just after 6 p.m. on July 23 after observing a traffic violation. Bodycam footage subsequently released by law enforcement captured Romo explaining that he was traveling from a West Bend golf tournament to visit family in his hometown of Burlington.
During the stop, deputies noted that Romo displayed red, glassy eyes and the odor of alcohol. After performing poorly on standardized field sobriety tests—initially administered at the scene and later in a parking garage due to heavy highway traffic—he was taken into custody and subsequently refused to take a breathalyzer test. He is scheduled to appear in court on September 21.
Romo’s Representative Issues Statement on Responsibility and CBS Talks
In the weeks following the arrest, Romo remained publicly silent while bodycam footage and police reports circulated widely. Through a spokesperson, the broadcaster broke that silence, acknowledging the situation through a statement provided to media outlets.
Photo: FOX6 News Milwaukee
“Tony accepts full responsibility for his actions and has taken proactive steps to ensure that this isolated civil matter is properly resolved. We are working with local authorities to bring this matter to a close and we are communicating with CBS Sports about next steps.”
While Wisconsin law generally treats a first-offense OWI as a civil matter rather than a criminal charge, the public visibility of the arrest quickly altered Romo’s professional standing. CBS Sports placed its lead game analyst on leave until further notice just eight days after the incident occurred.
CBS Elevates J.J. Watt as Network Assesses Long-Term Future
The timing of the arrest forced an immediate shakeup in the network’s top NFL broadcast booth, where Romo has teamed with Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson. CBS quickly turned to J.J. Watt to fill the void, with ESPN reporting that J.J. Watt has been tabbed to join the primary broadcast crew for the upcoming season.
Photo: Fox News
Industry observers have questioned whether Romo will ever reclaim his position in the booth. Speaking on WFAN, Boomer Esiason offered a candid assessment of the situation’s gravity.
“If I had to guess, purely speculation given what’s going on right now, I would think it’s over. He may end up going somewhere else and getting things straightened out.”
BODYCAM VIDEO: Tony Romo arrested for OWI in Milwaukee | FOX6 News Milwaukee
Boomer Esiason, via WFAN
Network leadership has maintained a measured stance while evaluating the fallout. Speaking at the network’s annual NFL season preview event in New York, CBS Sports President David Berson emphasized that the network is prioritizing its brand image and broadcast presentation.
“It’s an evolving situation and therefore we are still assessing. There is no timetable or final decision at this time.”
David Berson, President of CBS Sports
Romo has four years left on his CBS contract, at a total payout of $72 million. Whether CBS attempts to terminate the agreement for cause or negotiate a financial settlement remains an open question as legal proceedings approach their September milestones.
Daniel Richardson is the Editor-in-Chief of Archysport, where he leads the editorial team and oversees all published content across nine sport verticals. With over 15 years in sports journalism, Daniel has reported from the FIFA World Cup, the Olympic Games, NFL Super Bowls, NBA Finals, and Grand Slam tennis tournaments. He previously served as Senior Sports Editor at Reuters and holds a Master's degree in Journalism from Columbia University. Recognized by the Sports Journalists' Association for excellence in reporting, Daniel is a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS). His editorial philosophy centers on accuracy, depth, and fair coverage — ensuring every story published on Archysport meets the highest standards of sports journalism.
