Cowboys position series: Quarterbacks*

Players: Tony Romo (signed through 2013), Jon Kitna (retiring), Stephen McGee (signed through 2012), Chris Greisen (exclusive rights free agent)

Top free agents: Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints; Matt Flynn, Green Bay Packers; Kyle Orton, Kansas City Chiefs; Chad Henne, Miami Dolphins; Alex Smith, San Francisco 49ers

Top draft prospects: Andrew Luck, Stanford; Robert Griffin III, Baylor; Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M; Brock Osweiler, Arizona State; Brandon Weeden, Oklahoma State

2011 review: Romo had arguably the best season of his career despite committing critical turnovers that were key to the Cowboys blowing double-digit leads in two early-season losses. He set a franchise record with a 102.5 passer rating, throwing for 4,184 yards and 31 touchdowns with only 10 interceptions. His success while playing with a broken rib should permanently end any questions about Romo’s toughness. McGee served as the backup after Kitna suffered a midseason back injury that ended up putting the veteran on the injured reserve. McGee played too conservatively in his only appearance, completing 24 of 38 passes for 182 yards and a late touchdown in a 20-7 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16.

Offseason preview: Romo ranks among the least of the Cowboys’ problems, so the Cowboys certainly won’t be searching for his immediate replacement. Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones is on record saying the team would be comfortable with McGee as the backup, but Jason Garrett’s track record indicates he’d be much more comfortable with an experienced veteran in that role. Jason Campbell, David Garrard, Shaun Hill and Sage Rosenfels could be affordable options. The Cowboys might also be in the market for a quarterback in the mid-rounds of the draft if there’s a guy on the board they believe could develop into Romo’s replacement a few years down the road.

Need meter (0-5): 2