Wednesday’s Morning Links:

Cowboys Officially End Romo’s Season: It is not to shocking to see Romo put on IR, rather just a bit surprising it took so long. Although they hadn’t been “mathematically eliminated” from the playoffs until just recently, it always seemed like a long shot for Romo to return this season. There was no reason to risk a more serious injury by rushing Romo back. And it makes even less sense considering that the Cowboys have been in the very capable hands of Jon Kitna. This doesn’t affect the Cowboys end of the season outlook too much as they have a fairly winable game this week against the Cardinals followed by a pretty difficult matchup against the Eagles.

Marlins Extend Nolasco: Florida has made some odd moves this offseason, like trading away Dan Uggla, but made a smart one by extending Nolasco. He isn’t a true ace, but he is young and no worse than a good number 3 pitcher. Extending Nolasco ensures another key member of the Marlins is locked up for the next couple of seasons. The extension only buys out one year of free agency for Nolasco, but it would be at a reduced rate than what Nolasco would cost in free agency. In addition to that extra season of control it offers the Marlins much needed cost certainty going forward.

Steve Smith Could Be Done In Carolina: This should really come as no surprise since the Panthers are downright awful right now and Smith is having his worst season. Unfortunately for the Panthers, they realized this half a season too late. The best time to trade Smith would have been at this year’s trade deadline, before his value decreased and he could have been apart of two playoff runs. Now the Panthers won’t get near the return for their star receiver, further hindering whoever their new coach will be. While some fans will argue for Smith to still be apart of the future of the Panthers, they need to seriously consider rebuilding and should move Smith in the best deal possible.