Tony Romo has long been a polarizing figure in football, both celebrated for his undeniable talent and criticized for his inability to reach the pinnacle of success as a quarterback. At 44 years old in 2025, Romo’s journey from undrafted rookie to NFL star and now a celebrated sports broadcaster is a testament to perseverance and reinvention. Along the way, Romo has built a remarkable career and a net worth of $70 million, cementing his place as one of football’s most recognizable figures.
A Rocky Start to an Impressive NFL Career
Born on April 21, 1980, in San Diego, California, Tony Romo’s football journey began at Eastern Illinois University, where he set multiple school records as a quarterback. Despite his stellar college stats, Romo went undrafted in the 2003 NFL Draft. However, his potential caught the attention of the Dallas Cowboys, who signed him as an undrafted free agent.
Initially, Romo served as a backup to veteran quarterbacks like Vinny Testaverde and Drew Bledsoe. It wasn’t until 2006, his fourth season in the NFL, that Romo got his big break. When Bledsoe was injured, Romo stepped up as the starter and quickly proved he was more than capable. By the end of the season, he had led the Cowboys to the playoffs—though a botched snap in a crucial game against the Seahawks marked the beginning of his reputation as someone who struggled in high-pressure moments.
The Highs and Lows of Romo’s NFL Career
Over the next decade, Tony Romo established himself as one of the NFL’s most talented quarterbacks, even if his postseason record was inconsistent. In 2007, Romo signed a six-year, $67.5 million contract extension after leading the Cowboys to a 13-3 regular season. However, the team fell short in the playoffs, losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion New York Giants.
Romo’s career was defined by incredible individual performances paired with heartbreaking losses. He led the Cowboys to the playoffs in 2009, winning his first postseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, but injuries and missed opportunities plagued the following seasons. In 2013, Romo signed another lucrative contract worth $108 million over six years, reflecting the Cowboys’ continued belief in his talent.
One of Romo’s best seasons came in 2014, when he threw 34 touchdown passes and led the Cowboys to a 12-4 record. He even won a second playoff game before losing to the Packers in the divisional round. However, injuries began to take their toll. A broken collarbone in 2015 derailed his season, and by 2016, he had lost his starting role to rookie quarterback Dak Prescott after suffering another preseason injury.
Romo retired in April 2017 without ever making it to the Super Bowl, but his career stats remain impressive: 34,183 passing yards, 248 touchdowns, and a 97.1 passer rating.
A New Chapter: Tony Romo the Broadcaster
After retiring from football, Tony Romo quickly transitioned to broadcasting, joining CBS Sports as a color commentator alongside veteran play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz. Romo’s transition was seamless, and he was immediately praised for his ability to analyze and predict plays in real time.
During his first season in the booth, Romo captivated audiences with his insightful commentary and energetic delivery. In the 2018 AFC Championship Game between the Patriots and Chiefs, Romo’s uncanny ability to predict plays became a viral sensation, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best NFL analysts.
Romo’s success in broadcasting has been financially rewarding as well. In 2020, CBS signed him to a 10-year, $180 million contract, making him the highest-paid sports broadcaster at the time. His annual salary as a commentator exceeds $17 million, contributing significantly to his $70 million net worth.
Endorsements and Commercial Success
Tony Romo’s popularity extends beyond the football field and the broadcast booth. Throughout his career, he has been a sought-after figure for endorsements. He has appeared in commercials for major brands such as DirecTV, Pizza Hut, Under Armour, and Corona. Even after retiring as a player, Romo remains a prominent face in advertising, thanks to his relatable personality and strong connection with fans.
Family and Personal Life
Romo has built a fulfilling life off the field as well. In 2011, he married Candice Crawford, a former Miss Missouri and sports journalist. The couple has three sons—Hawkins, Rivers, and Jones—who are often seen cheering on their dad in his various endeavors.
Despite being one of the most recognizable figures in football, Romo has managed to keep his personal life relatively low-key. He is a devoted husband and father who enjoys spending time with his family when he’s not working.
Romo’s Legacy: A Resilient and Multifaceted Career
Tony Romo’s career is a tale of resilience and reinvention. While he never reached the Super Bowl, his time as the Dallas Cowboys’ quarterback was marked by impressive individual achievements and a commitment to his team. His transition to broadcasting has been nothing short of extraordinary, allowing him to stay connected to the sport he loves while earning accolades for his work in the booth.
Romo’s net worth of $70 million reflects not only his success on the field but also his ability to remain relevant and respected in the NFL world. Whether analyzing plays on live television or appearing in commercials, Romo continues to be a beloved figure in the football community.