CBS Sports has placed Tony Romo on leave indefinitely after his arrest in Milwaukee on suspicion of driving under the influence, potentially removing its lead NFL analyst shortly before the 2026 season begins. The decision matters because Romo is a prominent part of CBS’s football coverage and his absence could affect its opening broadcasts and wider sports strategy.

Romo was stopped on Interstate 43 on 23 July while driving a black Jeep in which officers reportedly found an open alcohol bottle; he declined an intoxication test and is due in court on 21 September. The NFL season starts on 9 September, with JJ Watt and Tracy Wolfson set to join Jim Nantz during Romo’s absence; Romo’s CBS contract was reportedly worth about $17 million annually.