Dallas Cowboys: How Will Tony Romo's Injury Affect Him Going Forward?

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo sustained a fracture to his one of his ribs and a punctured lung when he took a vicious hit from San Francisco 49ers linebacker Ahmad Brooks on the game's third play last Sunday.

Now the question is: Will it affect him for the rest of the season?

It's worth noting that all Romo did after fracturing his ribs on Sunday was lead the Cowboys back from a 24-14 deficit in the fourth quarter, throwing a 25-yard touchdown strike to receiver Miles Austin in the process.

It's ironic that Romo was injured in a redemption game for him after his costly fourth-quarter fumble and interception during the Cowboys' 27-24 loss to the New York Jets in Week 1.

Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett has claimed Romo is likely to start in Week 3 against the Washington Redskins; and Romo has reiterated this.

But there's no doubt he's going to be in pain, especially right after his injury, and perhaps the concern should lie on the offensive line, which will need to keep Romo upright if they don't expect him to re-aggravate his injury.

Romo did only take one sack against the 49ers, but he also did take some big hits and got a good deal of pressure along the way. The offensive line is going to have to do a better job of protecting him if he is to last the rest of the season.

It's a critical time for a Cowboys team coming off a disappointing 2010 season. Under Garrett, they have undoubtedly played better, but it's important that they get off to a fast start to erase the demons of early 2010. Building momentum is key at this point.

The Cowboys' Week 3 affair against the Redskins won't be a walk in the park either. Despite losing Albert Haynesworth and cornerback Carlos Rogers in the offseason, Washington has actually looked much better this season.

The Redskins beat the New York Giants by two touchdowns to begin 2011, and then edged out the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2. Head coach Mike Shanahan has this squad playing well together, which would have been unfathomable last season.

Another thing worth noting?

The Redskins are tied for fourth in the NFL with seven sacks so far.

The Cowboys' O-line better bring its best in Week 3.

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Life hurts. This injury update brought to you by Dickies.