CBS debuted a new broadcast team for its marquee NFL game on Sunday, signaling a potential shift following the continued absence of longtime analyst Tony Romo. Romo, who remains under contract through 2029 with an $18 million annual salary, was notably absent throughout the Minnesota Vikings–Green Bay Packers game broadcast, reflecting the network’s apparent move away from the former quarterback after his legal troubles.

Romo has been on indefinite leave from CBS since July, following his arrest in Wisconsin on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Court records indicated his blood alcohol level was nearly twice the legal limit at the time. He pleaded no contest earlier this month and has expressed a desire to eventually return to broadcasting. However, CBS’s coverage on Sunday made no mention of Romo, underscoring uncertainty about his future role.

In Romo’s absence, retired defensive end J.J. Watt stepped into the analyst position alongside veteran play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz for the network’s top NFL broadcast. Watt, in his second year as a CBS commentator, had spent his rookie season paired with Ian Eagle on the No. 2 team. The pairing with Nantz Sunday received a mixed review, demonstrating flashes of chemistry while also exposing areas needing refinement.

Their broadcast featured moments of strong synergy, particularly late in the first half. For example, Watt’s timely urging to “take a shot” encouraged Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz to throw a deep pass that resulted in a touchdown catch. Nantz complemented Watt’s enthusiasm with an excited call that highlighted the play’s impact.

However, the duo also struggled on key calls, particularly late in the game with the Vikings ahead by three points. When Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love was pressured and ultimately forced to fumble near the goal line, Nantz initially failed to identify the turnover. Watt promptly recognized the play and reminded Nantz to note the ball change, salvaging the call but exposing coordination challenges.

The broadcast also revealed Watt’s potential strengths as an analyst, including his quick, instinctual reactions rooted in his defensive experience. He correctly challenged a personal foul penalty against a Packers lineman for roughing the passer, with CBS rules analyst Gene Steratore concurring, highlighting Watt’s growing confidence and expertise in deciphering complex plays.

Nonetheless, Watt displayed occasional emotional responses typical of a former player adjusting to a new role, such as reacting with frustration when a potentially game-impacting penalty flag was later overturned. Analysts and viewers alike note this will likely diminish as Watt becomes more acclimated to the broadcasting environment.

CBS Sports president David Berson orchestrated Watt’s gradual development, initially pairing him with Ian Eagle before this promotion to work alongside Nantz. The network appears intent on grooming Watt as a long-term successor to Romo.

Meanwhile, CBS’s secondary NFL broadcast team, featuring Ian Eagle and Ross Tucker, sounded more polished Sunday, reflecting their prior experience working together in radio. In contrast, the Nantz-Watt pairing remains a work in progress as they build rapport.

Before the game, the network’s pregame show introduced the new pairing with enthusiasm, with host James Brown remarking on the pairing's appeal and Nantz expressing excitement about working with Watt. Notably, Romo was absent from the discussion, reinforcing CBS’s current focus on its new broadcast team.

CBS’s handling of Romo’s predicament and Watt’s integration signals a potential new era for its top NFL game coverage, with Watt striving to prove himself as a worthy replacement in one of sports television’s most scrutinized roles.