“There’s no question that having a competitive quarterback does inspire you if you’re in my shoes and you’re trying to make those decisions,” Jones said. “The closer you feel like you’re getting, then the more you’re motivated to go ahead and extend.”

The five-time champion Cowboys have gone 12 seasons since their last Super Bowl.

Since three-time champion Aikman retired, the likes of Quincy Carter, Ryan Leaf, Chad Hutchinson, Vinny Testaverde and Bledsoe have been their starting quarterback. None ever generated the kind of excitement and optimism that Romo has in less than two full seasons.

Back in the California sun for camp, it’s easy to compare how far Romo has come since the last time the Cowboys were here. Except he says his approach is the same as it was then, before he was a two-time Pro Bowler or even the starter.

“There is always a little nostalgia in some ways about the process and what it took to get where you are. It’s funny, you still have a long way to go,” Romo said. “I’m trying to play. I’m trying to get on the field and get better. ... The exciting thing really about the game is just improvement.”

Despite his still-rising stardom, Romo is trying to convince people that nobody will remember him when he’s done playing. And he acts like he really believes that, often repeating that sentiment.

Reminded that Roger Staubach and Aikman are both still widely talked about, along with other former quarterbacks, Romo responds, “They’re a little better than I am. There’s good reason for that.”

Yeah, Staubach and Aikman both won Super Bowls, which is exactly what people are expecting Romo to do — maybe even this season.

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