Tony Romo pleads no contest to OWI, addresses alcohol struggles

The update

Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has entered a no contest plea to operating while intoxicated (OWI) following his July arrest in Milwaukee. The plea was entered Tuesday, according to local reports.

Romo, 46, faces a six-month driver’s license suspension and a $784 fine. The court also ordered an ignition interlock device on any vehicle he owns and requires him to complete an alcohol assessment program.

Why it matters

Romo used the public plea to address the circumstances surrounding the arrest. In a statement, he linked his struggles to a series of back surgeries that ended his NFL career and led to chronic pain.

He stated that efforts to manage pain with medication eventually led to an over-reliance on alcohol. Romo emphasized taking responsibility for his actions and said he is working with a team of doctors to address his health.

What to watch

Romo remains on leave from his role as CBS Sports’ lead NFL analyst. The network has indicated the situation is evolving as they assess his future with the company.

Details regarding the specific treatment plan Romo will undertake have not been publicly released. The outcome of this case may influence how other public figures address personal struggles in the future.

Sources

• San Antonio Express-News — arrest date, traffic stop details, open bottle citation, refusal of test citation
• espn.com — plea details, license suspension, fine, ignition interlock, assessment program, CBS Sports leave status, medical context