Jerry Jones speaks from the heart after Tony Romo’s CBS exit: ‘He’s just getting started’

J erry Jones’ words about Tony Romo carry the warmth of someone speaking about a person he loves. Their shared history gives his support a meaning that goes beyond the relationship between an NFL franchise owner and his former quarterback. At a difficult moment for Romo, Jones is offering affection, confidence and a reminder that one painful chapter does not have to define everything that follows.

Jones also brings the perspective of a businessman whose experience extends well beyond the Dallas Cowboys. His business ventures include energy investments, and he is the majority shareholder of natural gas producer Comstock Resources. He sees new possibilities for Romo, even as his departure from CBS leaves his next career move uncertain. In Jones’ view, that next chapter begins with Romo taking care of himself.

Jerry Jones sees room for Tony Romo to rebuild

Speaking on 105.3 The Fan on October 7, in comments shared by The Athletic’s Jon Machota , Jones made the personal connection clear. “Tony is one of the most valued relationships that I have on a personal basis. I love him,” he said.

Jones expressed sadness over how the year had unfolded, explaining that he enjoyed what Romo brought to NFL broadcasts and felt proud of his success as a former Cowboy. Yet his message kept returning to the future: “He’s just getting started. He really is. I say that with all sincerity.”

That support comes after CBS and Romo announced their mutual separation on October 2, ending nine years together. Romo had been placed on indefinite leave following his July 23 arrest in Wisconsin for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

He entered a no-contest plea to the civil charge on September 1. CBS confirmed that J.J. Watt would continue alongside Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson on its lead NFL broadcast team for the remainder of the 2026 season.

Jones acknowledged Romo’s mistakes while reflecting on his own. “I can’t look in my mirror without seeing what can happen when you experience mistakes,” he said. Romo, meanwhile, has publicly linked his struggles with alcohol to chronic pain following football injuries and surgeries.

In his departure statement, he said he would take a break to focus on his health and family before pursuing his next opportunity. For now, rebuilding his personal well-being is the priority he has identified.

What comes after that remains open. Jones announced no job offer or broadcasting opportunity, but his confidence was unmistakable. “I don’t know of anyone, period, that has a better future than Tony Romo,” he said, before adding: “He’s not only got great talent, but he’s a hell of a man.”

For Romo, those words offer something meaningful during an uncertain transition: the assurance that someone who knows him beyond his public career still believes in the person and the possibilities ahead.