Tony Romo will miss Rams-Cardinals broadcast due to COVID-19

Football fans won’t hear Tony Romo during Sunday’s pivotal Los Angeles Rams-Arizona Cardinals game.

Sunday is the final day of the 2020 NFL regular-season, and there are currently 18 teams in the playoff picture. Arguably the most crucial game of Week 17 is between the Los Angeles Rams and Arizona Cardinals. In fact, CBS sent out their A-team to call the game in Jim Nantz and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo. However, the latter will not be on the call this Sunday.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Romo will miss the Rams-Cardinals game due to COVID-19 protocols, and will be replaced by Boomer Esiason. CBS would not elaborate on whether Romo tested positive for the virus or if he was pulled due to contact tracing.

Rams-Cardinals haunted by COVID-19

Romo isn’t the only person to be removed from the Rams-Cardinals game.

Earlier this week, Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp tested positive for COVID-19 and was ruled out for the Week 17 contest. Additionally, defensive lineman Michael Brockers was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Shortly after the Romo news hit, the Cardinals announced that they placed wide receiver Christian Kirk on their reserve/COVID-19 list, but did not specify if he tested positive or was considered a close contact with someone who did test positive. As a result, he’ll sit out of Arizona’s must-win game.

The playoff scenarios are simple for both teams. The Cardinals would clinch a berth if they defeat the Rams or if they tie and the Chicago Bears lose to the Green Bay Packers. The Rams can secure a playoff spot if they were to win or tie against Arizona or if the Bears lose or tie against the Packers.

CBS will be hosting an NFL playoff game next Saturday and Sunday, but it’s unknown whether Romo will be back in time due to the specific COVID-19 protocols. We should find out more information throughout the next week.