Tony Romo isn’t going anywhere - at least not anytime soon.
Despite growing frustration from fans over his recent performances in the broadcast booth, the former Cowboys quarterback remains firmly entrenched as CBS Sports’ lead NFL analyst. Romo, who burst onto the broadcasting scene in 2017 with uncanny play-predicting abilities and an infectious enthusiasm, has seen public perception shift in recent years. But inside CBS, the message is clear: Romo’s job is not in jeopardy.
There’s been a noticeable uptick in criticism this season, with some viewers calling for Romo and longtime play-by-play partner Jim Nantz to be replaced atop CBS’s No. 1 NFL broadcast team.
One name that’s gained traction among fans as a potential successor? J.J.
Watt - another former NFL star who’s made a strong impression in his early media appearances. But that’s not a move CBS is entertaining right now.
According to reporting from Michael McCarthy, there’s growing frustration within CBS about what they see as an unfair narrative forming around Romo. Internally, the network views much of the backlash as media-driven noise, not a reflection of Romo’s actual performance or value to the broadcast.
And the numbers back that up - at least contractually. Romo is signed with CBS through 2030, a deal that was inked when the network made a massive financial commitment to keep him in the booth. That timeline all but guarantees he’ll be calling marquee games, including CBS’s broadcast of the Super Bowl in 2028.
So, for those hoping to see a shake-up in the booth, don’t hold your breath. Romo’s not just staying put - he’s locked in.
What happens after 2030? That’s a different conversation.
Romo, an elite amateur golfer who’s won his share of celebrity tournaments, could have options outside the broadcast world. At 50, he might just be eyeing a run at the Champions Tour as much as another decade in sports media.
The latest round of criticism came after Romo’s commentary during the Bills’ win over the Jaguars, which drew heat from fans and even a pointed accusation from Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, who suggested Romo was under the influence - a claim that, while extreme, underscores how polarizing Romo has become in the public eye.
Still, CBS isn’t budging. Despite the noise, Romo remains the face of their NFL coverage - and unless something dramatic changes, that’s not going to change anytime soon.