Challenges Faced by Tony Romo: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Tony Romo. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Tony Romo is a former American football quarterback, renowned for his 13-season career with the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. He went undrafted in 2003 but signed with Dallas and became their starting quarterback. Before his NFL career, Romo excelled at Eastern Illinois University, leading the team to an Ohio Valley Conference championship appearance in 2001 and winning the Walter Payton Award in 2002.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2003: Signed by Cowboys as Undrafted Free Agent

In 2003, after not receiving an initial invitation to the NFL Combine but later attending, Tony Romo went undrafted but was then signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Dallas Cowboys.

January 6, 2007: NFC Wild Card Round Fumble

On January 6, 2007, during the NFC Wild Card Round game against the Seattle Seahawks, Tony Romo fumbled a snap on a field goal attempt, leading to a loss for the Cowboys.

December 21, 2010: Placed on Injured Reserve

On December 21, 2010, Tony Romo was placed on injured reserve and replaced by Jon Kitna after suffering a broken left clavicle during a game.

2011: Broken Rib and Punctured Lung

During Week 2 of 2011, Tony Romo suffered a broken rib and a punctured lung. Romo came back in the final seconds of the third quarter and played the fourth quarter throwing for a touchdown and driving down the field for the game-tying field goal with four seconds left in the game to force overtime. For his performance in this game, Romo earned the NFC's Offensive player of the Week Award.

April 2013: Romo undergoes back surgery

In April 2013, Tony Romo underwent back surgery to remove a cyst. Although considered a minor procedure by the team, he missed all mini-camp and organized team activities in 2013 as a result.