DALLAS – Tony Romo is retiring from the Dallas Cowboys to replace another former quarterback, Phil Simms, as lead analyst for CBS.
The network announced Tuesday that Romo will be paired with Jim Nantz on Thursday night and Sunday games next season. The former 10-year starter considered multiple network offers while also deciding whether to keep playing after losing the Dallas job to rookie Dak Prescott last season.
Romo was released by the Cowboys and said he had interest from other teams but chose the switch to broadcasting for several reasons. The married father of two young boys with another child on the way battled injuries his past two seasons, and he said the CBS opportunity was difficult to pass up.
"It reminds me of my rookie year where you really don't know anything," Romo said. "You're walking into a brand-new situation and you can kinda play the game. I can kinda talk. But this is a completely different world. I like that challenge."
The departure of the team's career passing leader had been expected since November, when Romo conceded the job after missing 10 weeks because of a back injury. The Cowboys were in the middle of a franchise-record 11-game winning streak with Prescott when Romo returned.
While Romo didn't say he was retiring from football, he left little doubt that his playing days were likely over.
"I could play tomorrow. I'm making this decision with the choice to be able to play as well," said Romo, who turns 37 this month. "Do I envision coming back and playing football? Absolutely not. I'm committed to CBS for good. Do I think I'm going to get some calls? I'm sure I will."
CBS Sports Chairman Sean McManus said the network planned to keep Simms and was working on finding another role for their lead analyst the past 19 seasons.
