Stephen A. Smith is rooting for Tony Romo. The ESPN star hopes CBS keeps its lead NFL analyst employed.
What We Know: Wisconsin authorities arrested Romo in Milwaukee on July 23, roughly two weeks ago. According to reports, officers said Romo failed field sobriety tests and refused a breathalyzer. Consequently, CBS placed Romo on leave “until further notice” days later. Meanwhile, J.J. Watt has replaced him alongside Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson. There’s been much speculation about CBS Sports retaining Romo following the incident. Stephen A. Smith was asked about it during his daily radio program on SiriusXM radio.
What They Said: (All quotes from The Stephen A. Smith Show SiriusXM Radio)
Stephen A. Smith on Tony Romo making a mistake: “It was a mistake to put himself in that position. But it happens from time to time. Thank God nobody was hurt or anything like that. Can’t get behind the wheel of a car inebriated in any way. Can’t even give that impression. That’s a very serious transgression, and we can’t minimize that.”
Stephen A. Smith hopes Tony Romo’s mistake doesn’t cost him his CBS Sports job: “He’s been a good dude, he’s always been a good dude, and nobody’s perfect. People make mistakes. And hopefully he can move on from here and live his best life and continue to do the great work he’s been doing for CBS.”
What Remains Unclear: Still, Romo’s timetable for a return stays a mystery. So far, CBS hasn’t confirmed whether he’ll be back or not.
What It Means: Smith’s support carries weight, but it won’t decide Romo’s future. Instead, CBS executives must balance loyalty against potential public scrutiny. Consequently, speculation will linger until the network makes its next move. For now, Romo’s job security remains an open storyline heading into the season.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.