SOUTHLAKE, Texas — Balancing his golf dreams and football career never has been a problem for Tony Romo, according to Dallas Cowboys teammate and good friend Jason Witten.
The Cowboys tight end was asked Wednesday what it meant to the team to have Romo choose not to attempt to qualify next month for the US Open.
"I don't think anybody has ever doubted his dedication," Witten said after an autograph appearance at a Southlake Dunkin' Donuts. "But I do think there's a perception that goes along with that, and there's something to be said for that. I don't think that ever takes away from anything he ever does on the football field.
"He's the first one in and the last one to leave. He's been that way for a long time. I believe he'll put us in position to be successful this year. He's an elite quarterback."
When asked whether Romo's decision sent a message, Witten said there's "no question" that it did.
"I think that trickles down," Witten said. "It starts at the top, and you show that commitment and there's no doubt about it, it trickles down. He's definitely the leader of that group to send that message."
Romo and Witten have been participating in offseason workouts at Valley Ranch.
"Everybody's there and working hard," Witten said. "The best thing about it is, no talk just action. And we know that's what it's going to take.
"You're going to get better when you're working with each other. I think that's good for our team because our best players are our hardest workers. I believe it's going to pay off for us, and I think that's what this time of year is all about."
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