Dallas Cowboys Rumors: 50 Million Reasons To Cut Tony Romo Contract

The 4-1 Dallas Cowboys have stunned many by winning without veteran quarterback Tony Romo. Rookie Dak Prescott has exceeded even Jerry Jones’ expectations so far this season. But that still doesn’t take away from the big elephant in the room; the Cowboys have to make a big roster decision concerning Romo.

Not just this year and who will take over as the starter, but moving forward next season and beyond.

Beginning next season, Romo will still have another three years and $73.6 million worth of salary cap hits remaining on his contract. That’s a lot of money. A lot of money and a lot of big decisions to make.

If the Cowboys cut Romo before June 1 2017, they would only owe Romo $10.7 million that year, $8.9 million in 2018 and save a wide majority of the $23.7 million for 2019. Essentially speaking, the Cowboys could save about $50 million if they choose to release Romo before June 1, 2017.

That’s a lot of money that could be used to help out other positions. The Cowboys could use that cap space to help their secondary, defensive line, and prepare for life after Jason Witten.

There are also a few other scenarios. Romo could retire, which would save the Cowboys even more money in the long run. Possible, yes. Likely? Probably not. Would you turn down millions of guaranteed money? Didn’t think so. Another option is trade. This is a difficult scenario because of Romo’s contract. Many teams may feel hesitant because they don’t want to pay for an aging quarterback. A restructured deal may be in place if Cowboys management says “restructure or you’re gone.”

The Cowboys (once again) chose not to place Romo on IR, meaning he is eligible to return once the team feels he is ready. Whether or not the Cowboys want to go ahead with Romo past this season remains a mystery.