Romo Pleads No Contest to OWI, Faces License Revocation and Interlock Device

Key points

• Romo pleaded no contest to a civil OWI offense on Sept. 1, 2026, following a July 23 arrest in Milwaukee County.
• Court records show the unsafe passing and open container charges were dismissed, leaving only the OWI charge active.
• Penalties include a six-month license revocation, $834 in fines, and an ignition interlock device for at least one year.
• Romo stated that chronic pain from back surgeries led to medication dependence, which subsequently led to alcohol over-reliance.
• CBS Sports placed Romo on leave in late July, with J.J. Watt replacing him in the lead broadcast booth.

Background

Romo’s legal troubles began with his arrest on July 23, 2026, near the Marquette Interchange in Milwaukee. He had been playing in the Wisconsin Amateur Championship golf tournament prior to the stop. CBS Sports placed him on indefinite leave on July 31, prompting network reshuffles. Earlier archive coverage noted that Romo had previously addressed the situation via spokesperson and hinted at a potential return to the network, though his status remained uncertain due to ongoing legal proceedings and a large remaining contract value.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today and ABC News both confirmed the no-contest plea and the resulting six-month license revocation. However, they differ slightly on the fine amount: USA Today reports a total of $834, while ABC News and FOX6 News Milwaukee cite a $784 fine plus $50 in costs. FOX6 News emphasizes the specific location of the arrest on the high-rise bridge and details the timeline of his booking and release. All sources agree that Romo’s statement blamed pain medication and alcohol, and that CBS has replaced him with J.J. Watt for the 2026 season. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys owner, publicly supported Romo’s character, contrasting with the legal consequences reported by the court.

Why it matters

The case highlights the personal and professional fallout for high-profile athletes transitioning to media roles. Romo’s admission of substance-related issues and the mandatory ignition interlock device underscore the strict legal and reputational consequences for public figures. For CBS Sports, the indefinite leave and replacement of Romo with J.J. Watt signal a significant shift in their flagship NFL broadcast team, affecting viewer expectations and network strategy for the upcoming season.

What to watch

Romo must complete the Alcohol Assessment Program and pay the fines by Nov. 2, 2026, to avoid a one-year license suspension. He is required to maintain an ignition interlock device on his vehicles for at least one year after his license is reissued. CBS Sports has not announced a permanent replacement for Romo, leaving his return to the network uncertain as he focuses on health and family.