Jerry Jones Publicly Backs Tony Romo, May Protect His CBS Announcer Contract

Tony Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback turned CBS Sports announcer, has been placed on indefinite leave after being arrested on suspicion of operating while intoxicated (OWI) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, according to The Spun. The arrest has sparked a firestorm of debate over whether Romo should keep his job — and a $72 million contract — at CBS.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has come to Romo's defense publicly, calling him a unique talent. Now, NFL insiders say Jones may go even further if CBS tries to cut Romo loose without honoring the full contract, according to Miami Herald.
Romo was arrested in Milwaukee on suspicion of OWI — a charge similar to a DUI. CBS responded quickly, placing him on indefinite leave. The network has not said when or whether he will return to the broadcast booth, according to News Observer.
The stakes are enormous. Romo still has roughly $72 million remaining on his CBS contract. If the network moves to fire him for cause — meaning they blame his own actions — they could try to avoid paying out that money. That is where Jerry Jones may step in, insiders say.
Jones did not stay quiet after the arrest. The Cowboys owner praised Romo, saying he has always had the ability to handle adversity. Jones also called Romo a rare talent who makes football games better for viewers, according to Macon. Those words were seen as a public show of support.
Jones and Romo share a long history. Romo played 14 seasons as the Cowboys' starting quarterback before retiring in 2017. Their bond goes beyond football, and insiders believe Jones feels a personal loyalty to his former star.
NFL insiders say Jones could use his influence in the league and in media circles to pressure CBS into keeping Romo. More directly, some sources suggest Jones might help negotiate a deal that keeps Romo employed while the legal process plays out, according to Miami Herald.
The key question is whether CBS treats this as a fireable offense. If they do, a legal battle over the $72 million contract could follow. Jones stepping in early — even with just public praise — may signal he plans to be involved in whatever comes next, according to Bellingham Herald.
Romo has been one of the most popular NFL broadcasters since joining CBS in 2017. Fans praised him for predicting plays before they happened. His style was fresh and exciting. But the OWI arrest has put all of that at risk, according to News Observer.
No charges have been formally filed yet. OWI cases can take weeks or months to resolve. CBS has not set a timeline for its review. For now, Romo remains off the air, his $72 million future hanging in the balance — and Jerry Jones watching closely.
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