Tony Romo breaks silence on CBS status for first time since OWI arrest

Tony Romo remains on leave at CBS as the NFL regular season approaches, following a July arrest for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, but he is speaking out for the first time since his status at the network came into question.

Romo released a lengthy statement on Tuesday, explaining his side of the story and the steps he has taken since his arrest.

Romo's comments also hint at his future alongside Jim Nantz at CBS, which has been up in the air since his placement on leave.

Romo said in a statement that he pleaded no contest to a civil offense for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

"Multiple back surgeries ended my career earlier than I expected and left me with constant, debilitating pain," Romo said. "That pain led to a dependence on pain medication, and my efforts to get off those medications led to an over-reliance on alcohol."

Romo called his arrest a "personal failure" and said he has spent the past month confronting his own mistakes.

"I am working closely with a team of doctors to address and make the necessary changes," Romo said.

The former quarterback thanked his family and friends, as well as the NFL community, for their support since his arrest in Wisconsin on the evening of July 23.

Here's what Romo had to say about his future at CBS.

Romo didn't make any definitive statements about his broadcasting job, but he strongly hinted that he plans to return to the booth.

"As I turn my attention to my health, my family, and, in time, my return to CBS, I kindly ask for privacy during this period," Romo said.

Romo appears to be expecting CBS to bring him back when he is ready, but his statement indicates he isn't planning an immediate return. With Week 1 less than two weeks away, that means J.J. Watt is in line to open the season as CBS' No. 1 color commentator next to Jim Nantz. Nantz's team is calling the NFC North matchup between the Packers and Vikings in Week 1.