Tony Romo's offseason OWI arrest has put CBS in a tough spot. The network's top NFL announcer, who signed a contract worth over $20 million annually, now faces public pressure to be disciplined. Fans are demanding a suspension, and if CBS decides to bench Romo for a game or two, three names are already emerging as potential replacements.
The arrest occurred on a Thursday night in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when Romo was pulled over on Interstate 43 after reportedly performing poorly on standardized field sobriety tests. He was booked on one count of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and later released. His court date is set for September 21, 2026—the Monday after the second week of the NFL regular season. That timing could create a scheduling nightmare for CBS, especially if Romo is expected to call a Sunday game like the Patriots vs. Steelers the day before his court appearance.
Fans have been vocal on social media, arguing that CBS should treat Romo the same way it would treat a player or coach. One fan wrote, “If this was a player or a coach, they would probably be suspended. CBS needs to do the same to Romo.” Another added, “Driving while intoxicated is never OK. CBS needs to act swiftly here.” Even self-described Romo supporters are calling for public discipline, with one saying, “I’m a Romo fan, but this is not good. He needs to face public discipline for this kind of behavior.”
If CBS does suspend Romo, the network has three strong internal options to fill the void. The first is J.J. Watt, who has quickly become a fan favorite in the booth. The former defensive end brings a rare defensive perspective to broadcasts, and his personable, colorful style has earned high marks during the 2025 regular season. Some analysts have even suggested that Watt could eventually replace Romo full-time.
The second option is Nate Burleson, a former NFL wide receiver who is already a familiar face at CBS. Burleson works on both the network's NFL coverage and its daily morning show, making him a versatile and well-liked presence. While he's primarily known for studio work, he has done some in-game coverage and could use this opportunity to make a major leap into game broadcasting on a premier stage.
The third candidate is Russell Wilson, the former star quarterback who is joining CBS this season. Wilson is expected to contribute in the studio, but if Romo is suspended, he could be a natural fit for spot appearances in the booth. NFL networks traditionally gravitate toward former quarterbacks for game analysis, and Wilson's experience and name recognition would make him an immediate draw.
Of course, none of this matters unless CBS decides to suspend Romo first. The network has not yet made a public statement on the matter, but the pressure is mounting. For now, all eyes are on how CBS will handle the situation—and whether one of these three rising stars will get a chance to shine.
For more on how networks handle high-profile replacements, check out the recent buzz around NASCAR fans demanding Eric Brennan replace Jamie Little in the FOX booth, or the ongoing debate about NFL replacement officials as the league prepares for a 2026 officiating overhaul. Meanwhile, the 2027 NFL draft is already seeing five quarterback favorites emerge for the No. 1 pick.
