Jim Nantz Discusses Changes in the Booth After Tony Romo’s Arrest

Jim Nantz, the main play-by-play announcer for CBS Sports, has addressed the situation involving Tony Romo’s arrest for operating while intoxicated (OWI) in July. This incident has resulted in Nantz having a new broadcasting partner as the NFL season approaches.

Nantz and Romo had formed a notable partnership ever since Romo, a former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, signed a prominent 10-year deal to become CBS Sports’ leading NFL analyst. They have been working closely with Nantz, a broadcasting veteran on the team.

During the recent ‘NFL on CBS’ Media Day, Nantz was questioned by Awful Announcing regarding whether CBS Sports has kept him informed about Romo’s status for the upcoming NFL season. Nantz reflected on his approach, stating, “I really was just laying low, I had golf events to do and I knew they had a lot to, you know, look at, sort out… I just kind of wanted to focus on what’s in front of me, and that’s what I’ve done.”

Romo’s arrest came after Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped him for driving with signs of impairment following a golf event. He faced charges for operating under the influence and for having an open container in his vehicle, along with unsafe passing.

In light of the situation, CBS Sports President noted that Romo’s case remains “evolving” as they continue to assess the ramifications. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the network’s image and brand integrity, highlighting the need for focus on their presentation.

To manage the situation, CBS Sports announced that J.J. Watt, a well-known former player for the Houston Texans, will join Nantz in the booth. Nantz expressed continued friendship and support for Romo, saying, “Tony is a great friend of mine and has been for years… I adore his family, his wife (Candice Crawford) is awesome. They’re the ones that are on my mind right now.”

Despite the broadcasting change, Romo is in the midst of a sizable $180 million contract with CBS, with $72 million still outstanding. According to OutKick, Romo’s future at CBS had already been in question before his arrest, especially regarding his role beyond 2026.

Reports have surfaced about a morals clause in Romo’s contract, which CBS might use to terminate the agreement following the arrest incident. Legal proceedings are likely as Romo’s legal team would contest the termination clause with the outstanding financial commitments.

Romo’s court appearance is scheduled for September 21, a week after CBS Sports’ initial NFL broadcast featuring Nantz and Watt. The network continues preparing for its upcoming Super Bowl coverage in 2028.