Tony Romo remained one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Dallas Cowboys on Friday, even though the former quarterback was nowhere near the field as training camp officially opened in Oxnard.
As owner Jerry Jones took part in the Cowboys’ opening ceremony on August 1, one fan loudly shouted, “Jerry, Free Romo!” The chant came just days after Romo was placed on leave by CBS Sports following his arrest on suspicion of operating a vehicle while under the influence.
But shortly after the opening ceremony, Jones was asked about Romo and the difficult stretch the former Cowboys quarterback is currently experiencing.
Jerry Jones sends message of support to Tony Romo
Jones revealed that he has remained in regular contact with Romo and made it clear he subtly implied that he believes the former quarterback will overcome the latest setback.
“I’ve been talking to him. I love him. I love what he’s about. I love his character,” Jones said before adding that Romo has always responded well to adversity. “One of his greatest attributes is that he can handle adversity. This is something that he will work through.”
Jones added, “And the real question is, and I don’t even have to ask what the answer is. Do you think Tony Romo knows how to get up when he gets knocked down? Okay. He’s had a life of that. And absolutely, that’s one of his greatest attributes, is that he can handle adversity. And so this is something that he will work through.”
Rather than discussing the legal case itself, Jones focused on Romo’s character and resilience. He finished by saying he remains a big supporter of both Romo and his family, adding that the former quarterback “feels every down time” just as much as he enjoys the good moments.
What has happened since Romo’s arrest?
Tony Romo was arrested in Milwaukee on July 23 on suspicion of operating a vehicle while under the influence.
- Deputies said they stopped Romo after he drove through a gore area on Interstate 43.
- Authorities reported observing signs of possible impairment, including red, glassy eyes and the odor of alcohol.
- Officers said Romo performed poorly on field sobriety tests.
- Deputies reported finding an open bottle of alcohol during an inventory search of his vehicle.
- Romo was cited for refusing an intoxication test after his arrest.
- His first court appearance is scheduled for September 21.
- Body camera footage showed Romo telling deputies he was coming from a golf course and had consumed “zero” drinks before being stopped.
CBS places Romo on leave
The fallout has extended beyond the legal case. CBS Sports announced that Romo had been placed on leave while the situation unfolds. Former NFL defensive star JJ Watt has taken over Romo’s role alongside longtime play by play announcer Jim Nantz until further notice.
Reports have indicated that CBS executives are evaluating Romo’s future with the network. Also, Romo reportedly has four years remaining on his current contract, which is worth approximately $72 million.
While his legal case and broadcasting future remain unresolved, the Cowboys owner left little doubt about where he stands, expressing confidence that Romo’s resilience will help him navigate one of the most difficult chapters of his public life.