CBS Sports is making a major change to its lead NFL broadcast team just weeks before the 2026 season begins. Tony Romo has been placed on leave until further notice following his recent arrest on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated in Wisconsin, creating an unexpected opening alongside longtime play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz.
The network has now turned to JJ Watt, who will temporarily move into one of the most prominent broadcasting roles in football. Watt is expected to work alongside Nantz and sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson while Romo remains away from CBS.
The decision represents a significant opportunity for Watt, who has quickly climbed the network’s broadcasting depth chart since retiring from the NFL after the 2022 season.
JJ Watt Replaces Tony Romo on CBS Broadcast Team
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported Friday that Watt will replace Romo “for the time being” and join Nantz and Wolfson on CBS’ top NFL crew.
CBS later confirmed that Romo had been placed on leave from his broadcasting role until further notice. The network did not provide a timetable for his return.
Romo was arrested following a traffic stop in Milwaukee County on July 23. He was reportedly taken into custody after performing field sobriety tests and is currently scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 21.
The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback has worked alongside Nantz since 2017 and remains under contract with CBS through 2030.
With Romo unavailable, Watt now receives the biggest broadcasting assignment of his young media career.
Watt Continues Rapid Rise at CBS
Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 after retiring from the NFL following 12 seasons with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals.
The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year initially worked as a studio analyst before expanding into game broadcasts. He later moved into CBS’ No. 2 NFL booth alongside Ian Eagle, replacing Charles Davis on that team.
Now, Watt is moving into the network’s lead booth.
The 37-year-old built his reputation as one of the most dominant defensive players of his generation. He recorded 114.5 sacks, earned five first-team All-Pro selections and was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2012, 2014 and 2015.
Watt’s defensive background also gives CBS a noticeably different perspective alongside Nantz. Romo became known for predicting offensive plays and explaining quarterback decisions, while Watt is capable of breaking down pass-rush plans, protection schemes and defensive adjustments.
CBS has not indicated whether Watt’s move will last for the entire season or only until Romo is cleared to return.
For now, however, the network is trusting one of its fastest-rising analysts with a high-profile assignment. Watt will have the opportunity to establish himself as a permanent lead-game option while working with one of the most respected announcers in sports television.
