Tony Romo has undergone season-ending back surgery and will not suit up for the Dallas Cowboys in their high-stakes, winner take-all, division finale against Philadelphia on Sunday.

Cowboys coach Jason Garrett told ESPN on Friday Romo underwent a procedure aimed at repairing his herniated disk earlier in the day and is expected to soon be released from the hospital and allowed to begin his rehabilitation.

"The procedure happened this morning," Garrett told the website. "We felt the surgery went well...it was the right decision for him and the right decision for the organization."

The Cowboys (8-7) face the Eagles (9-6) on Sunday, with the winner clinching the NFC East title and a playoff spot. Journeyman quarterback Kyle Orton is expected to start for Dallas and will be backed up by the newly acquired 41-year-old Jon Kitna.

Before going under the knife, Romo did all he could in hopes of being able to play on Sunday, even receiving an epidural on Monday. Over the years, Romo has played through injuries ranging from cracked ribs and a punctured lung.

"He'll start his road to recovery, sooner rather than later," said Garrett. "We're completely confident he will rehab and come back at 100 percent."

Romo ends his season having thrown for 3,828 yards and 31 touchdowns.