Report: Cowboys still view Romo as starter once medically cleared

Tony Romo's rehab has reportedly progressed to the point where he is throwing with increased velocity, meaning his return is looming large.

Despite the emergence of Dak Prescott, the Dallas Cowboys remain firm in their stance that Romo will be the starting quarterback when he is medically cleared to play, a source told Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

Florio emphasizes that doesn't mean they'll hold Romo out until Prescott's play drops off, using his health as an excuse to not make a decision. Dallas still intends to reinsert Romo into the lineup as soon as he's cleared "because they continue to believe he gives them the best chance to win."

As his initial recovery timeline indicated, Romo's return is still targeted for after the club's bye in Week 7 - either against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 8 or versus the Cleveland Browns in Week 9, according to Florio.

Prescott's Pro Bowl-level play has caused many to question whether it's time for the Cowboys to look to the future and move on from Romo.

However, the veteran passer's contract, which contains a near $20-million cap hit in 2017, means it would be difficult - though not impossible - for the Cowboys to continue forward with Prescott under center.