Tony Romo is opening up about his recent legal trouble in Wisconsin. The former Dallas Cowboys star pleaded no contest to an OWI offense. He also revealed that he developed a dependency on alcohol. Romo said he now wants to take responsibility and make changes.
After pleading no contest to an OWI offense, Tony opened up about replacing medication with alcohol
Romo posted a personal message on Instagram on Tuesday. He stated that the situation is a “personal failure” and that he personally takes responsibility for it. Romo said his career in football was cut short by several back surgeries. The surgeries also left him suffering from chronic pain, he said.
Romo said he first developed a dependency on pain medication. He then attempted to discontinue the medication. During that process, he said he replaced that dependency with alcohol. Romo said he now works with a team of doctors to address the issue.
“As I have told my three young sons: when you fall short, you stand up and take full responsibility,” Romo wrote. He called that an important first step in moving forward. The more difficult part is to look at how things came to that, he said. Romo also said he must make the changes needed to move ahead.
Romo also thanked his family, friends, and the NFL community for their support. Some of his famous friends, including Tom Brady, shared supportive messages under his post. Court records show that Romo must complete an alcohol assessment program. His driving privileges will also face a six-month revocation, and an ignition interlock device will go on his car.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance use, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a free, confidential, 24/7 helpline at 1-800-662-4357, as well as local treatment referral services.
