Late-night talk show host Stephen Colbert and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo have been a part of the same team at CBS for the last several years. During Romo’s first appearance on the late-night show, it felt like two teammates in a locker room repeatedly exchanging insults with each other throughout the entire interview. 

Tony Romo retires and moves up to CBS broadcast booth

In 2017, after a 14-year NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys, Tony Romo called it quits. He didn’t stay unemployed long. In fact, the Cowboys officially released Romo after he was announced as the color commentator for the network’s No. 1 NFL broadcast team. 

“When you think about the NFL, two of the most iconic brands are the Dallas Cowboys and CBS Sports,” Romo said. “Going from one legendary team to another as I begin the next phase of my career is a dream come true. I have always known that once my playing career was over, I wanted to become a broadcaster. I am ecstatic for the opportunity to work with Jim as I learn the craft and convey to fans my passion for this great game.”

In February 2020, after Romo’s initial three-year contract had expired, the network and former quarterback agreed to a deal that would pay him $17 million a season for the next decade.

Stephen Colbert fires first shot 

Stephen Colbert opened the interview by complimenting Tony Romo on his job broadcasting, admiring his new salary, and asking why he didn’t transition from the field to the broadcast booth sooner to avoid getting rushed by 300-pound men trying to “pulverize his femur.” 

Romo joked he went to Eastern Illinois and didn’t understand such big words, to which Colbert responded. 

“Really? You’ve never seen Theismann’s femur plow the field?” the host asked. 

“Wow, that was pretty good. You know about football a little,” Romo said, acting surprised.

“A little bit. I know you’re not Roger Staubach, buddy,” Colbert said firing the first shot at Romo. 

“No question. You’re not Johnny Carson,” the former quarterback quickly retorted, which brought Colbert to his feet and a little dance on the Zoom camera. 

Tony Romo holds his own 

A few minutes later, Stephen Colbert asked Tony Romo if the NFL and sports, in general, could maintain its escapability factor with politics now apart of the games more than ever.

“You’re talking to a sports guy. So for me, when I grew up, I never watched the news one time. I only watched Johnny Carson and when he was gone, everyone was terrible,” Como said smiling.

“I totally agree,” Colbert answered. “Totally agree. That’s why I don’t watch football anymore. No Staubach.” 

After Romo taught Colbert how to come up with a long-winded play call, including an awkward moment where the host raised his arms to show his muscles but instead revealed two dark pit stains, the two closed out the interview. Colbert asked if the former quarterback enjoyed the experience.

“Not really, but I really like you,” Romo said with his trademark smile.

“It’s good that we can be honest with each other,” Colbert replied. “It was nice to have you on the show once.” 

Appropriately, the comedian host got in the last shot of the exchange to end the interview. It was an entertaining few minutes that revealed Romo’s humorous side, and that Colbert needs to find a better deodorant. 

Like Sportscasting on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter @sportscasting19.