Jim Nantz jumps to defense of &#8216;unique&#8217; Tony Romo amid calls for $180m CBS axe

Apr 7, 2026 - 11:30

Tony Romo has been handed a major endorsement by one of his fellow CBS colleagues.

Former quarterback Romo burst onto the broadcasting scene in 2017 after retiring from the NFL, joining Nantz in the lead CBS booth.

Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. — Romo joined CBS in April 2017, just days after retiring from the NFL

The former Dallas Cowboys star quickly became loved by fans for his ability to predict plays, and was soon handed a mammoth $180 million contract by the network.

But in recent years, he has faced increasing criticism from viewers, with NFL fans calling for CBS to fire Romo last season.

The 45-year-old was particularly criticized for his performance during the Buffalo Bills’ win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2025 NFL playoffs.

The broadcaster left viewers confused after making strange noises in the booth, as well as pointing out the obvious.

But he quickly responded, saying he was battling illness while calling the game.

Now, in an appearance on The Pat McAfee show, Nantz said he is aware of the criticism Romo faces, but he is not concerned by it.

“He is unique, and you don’t want everyone out there to be the same,” Nantz said.

“He has a different perspective, he’s fun, he is incredibly knowledgeable about what’s happening and the X’s and the O’s, what’s going on in a football play.

“We’ve been together for nine years, it’s been a joyride. I know there’s a lot of noise out there, and sometimes the noise just feeds more noise.

“Tony doesn’t pay any attention to it, I don’t pay any attention to it. There are a lot of people that love him, the great majority do.

“I love him, it’s been a thrill working with him.”

CBS broadcaster Tony Romo before the AFC Championship game between the Tennessee Titans and Kansas City Chiefs on January 19, 2020 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. — Romo has faced increasing criticism from viewers for his unique broadcasting style

Jim Nantz speaking about Tony Romo in an appearance on the Pat McAfee show — Nantz said he loves working with Romo, and he doesn’t pay any attention to the criticism

Nantz joined the show from The Masters, where he is set to broadcast his 37th edition of the tournament.

Nantz is widely known for his iconic welcome: ‘Hello friends. Welcome to Masters week’ and his in-depth coverage of the tournament.

But the CBS legend used his appearance on the show to defend his NFL colleague, saying that Romo should be celebrated for being authentic, not criticized for being different.

“We’re going into season 10 this year, and we should celebrate the fact that he’s different,” Nantz continued.

“He’s got this oversized personality, and he acts like a big kid in the booth. And by the way, off the air, he’s a big kid.

CBS analyst Tony Romo (white shirt) and play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz call the game in the broadcast booth during the first half in the AFC Championship Game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs at M&T Bank Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. — Nantz said that viewers should celebrate the fact Romo has a different style, instead of criticizing him

“I’ve really enjoyed it, I’ve considered myself fortunate to have had him as a partner for a long, long time. More to come.”

CBS is committed to Romo until 2030, and the criticism he has faced hasn’t been reflected in the ratings.

Having Nantz’ support is a huge boost for Romo as he no doubt hopes the backlash calms down so he can carry on in his role, drama free.

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