Kyle Orton to Cowboys: Dallas Inks Tony Romo's Backup

The Dallas Cowboys haven't wasted any time signing a veteran backup for Tony Romo in free agency. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the team has landed Kyle Orton.

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Kyle Orton reached a three-year agreement with the Dallas Cowboys.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2012"

Orton is the first player that visited the Cowboys on Tuesday to sign with the team. Cornerback Brandon Carr also visited Dallas on Tuesday and is expected to become a Cowboy in the near future.

Landing a solid, veteran backup for the oft-injured Tony Romo is a smart move for the Cowboys. Romo was banged up for much of last year with fractured ribs suffered against the 49ers in Week 2 (though he didn't miss any games) and was lost for 10 games in 2010 with a broken clavicle.

The Cowboys may have seen enough of previous backup quarterback Jon Kitna after he threw two interceptions in only 10 attempts before Romo re-entered the game against the 49ers.

Last year, Orton threw for 779 yards, eight touchdowns and seven interceptions in five games with Denver before famously being replaced by Tim Tebow. He added 779 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in four games for the Kansas City Chiefs after being claimed on waivers by the team.

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