Cowboys Bring in 41-Year-Old Jon Kitna to Serve as Emergency Quarterback Behind Tony Romo, Kyle Orton

IRVING, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are close to bringing Jon Kitna out of retirement to serve as the team’s emergency quarterback with Tony Romo at risk of missing the season finale against Philadelphia.

The team reported on its website Tuesday night that Kitna would join the team in time for practice Christmas Day. The move is pending a physical for the 41-year-old Kitna, who retired after the 2011 season.

Romo injured his back in a 24-23 win over Washington that set up the Cowboys for their third straight playoffs-or-bust finale against an NFC East rival.

The Cowboys say Romo is getting treatment and being evaluated daily. Kyle Orton is the backup.

The 41-year-old Kitna has been teaching and coaching in Tacoma, Wash. He made nine starts for an injured Romo in 2010.