Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo may be one of the most scrutinized starting quarterbacks in the NFL. Following his recently signed six-year, $108 million contract extension, Romo has heard even more criticism from the media members and fans.

However, the Cowboys quarterback feels that he doesn't have any more pressure to succeed after the his new contract.

"Pressure and fear are all just in your own brain," he said. "To me, it's nothing more than you going out and you're competing your butt off every day and trying to win every day. So I don't allow what outside influences affect my psyche or what my mental makeup is. It's about this room, this team and how I'm going to get myself and my teammates ready to play. Outside influences don't directly affect how your emotional state is."

Statistically, Romo did put up good numbers during his final eight games of the season, going 5-3 with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions. However, his deciding loss to Washington during the final game of the season, as well as finishing the season with 19 interceptions, which tied for the league lead.

Romo still ranked in the top ten in multiple passing categories, including quarterback rating (10th), yards (third), touchdowns (sixth), completion percentage (fifth) and attempts (third). Romo is now 1-6 in elimination games for the Cowboys.

Despite what Romo may claim, there is pressure on him to prove he can lead the Cowboys into an impressive playoff run. Romo is guaranteed $55 million by his new contract.

"I guess, to me that's an easy way to say it's not real, pressure is," Romo said. "If you're telling yourself or saying you should be scared or that you're saying this is a lot of pressure, then you're losing already. That's not the right frame of mind or thought."