Tony Romo has broken his silence after an offseason arrest in Wilwaukee, Wisconsin. He has released a statement about his operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge.
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The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback-turned-CBS Sports analyst said in his statement that football has shaped every meaningful part of his life and taught him about facing failure head-on.
"This morning, I faced a recent personal failure by pleading no contest to a civil offense for OWI in Wisconsin. I own this completely," Romo said in his statement.
"Multiple back surgeries ended my career earlier than I expected and left me with constant, debilitating pain. That pain led to dependence on pain medication, and my efforts to get off those medications led to an over-reliance on alcohol."
This arrest occurred on July 24. Authorities stopped the CBS Sports analyst and said that they had done so due to alleged unsafe passing and other risky driving maneuvers. Officers then had Romo perform a field sobriety test before arresting him for performing poorly in them.
Romo continued in his statement and said that he has taught his sons the importance of standing up and taking full responsibility after falling short. He also taught them about making changes necessary to move forward.
Romo said that he takes responsibility for his failures, and he outlined his approach for moving forward.
"I am working closely with a team of doctors to address my health and make the necessary changes," he continued in the statement. "I am deeply grateful for the support of my family, my friends, and the NFL community including players, coaches, and owners.
"Your encouragement has meant more to me than you know."
CBS Sports responded to the arrest and sidelined Romo for the start of the 2026-27 NFL season. JJ Watt will move up to partner with Jim Nantz on the No. 1 team while Romo will continue focusing on working his way back to the broadcaster.
Romo has asked for privacy as he goes through this process and seeks a return to the CBS Sports lineup.
A statement from Tony Romo pic.twitter.com/SnvWtSM3rh
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) September 1, 2026
