Dallas Cowboys Training Camp: Standouts and Roster Spots
By Reid Hanson
October 20, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker
Sean Lee(50) during second half action against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports
Linebacker (6)
Sean Lee
Damien Wilson
As everyone knows, Sean Lee is back from a season-ending knee injury. Instead of playing MIKE this season, Lee will be starting at WILL. The Dallas Cowboys want to be careful with their fragile star, so they are slowly incorporating Lee into the defense. This is great news for rookie Damien Wilson.
Wilson has been a standout in camp, and appears to be this season’s version of Anthony Hitchens. Wilson even has a chance to earn a pass-coverage role in the nickel defense alongside Sean Lee.
Starting MIKE, Rolando McClain, starts the season injured and suspended. In his absence has been Anthony Hitchens. As I’ve said all offseason, Hitch projects as a better MIKE and WILL than he does a SAM. Just because he’s the 3rd best LB, doesn’t mean he’s going to lock down the final starting spot up for grabs (SAM).
Kyle Wilber is the early favorite to claim the SAM role and is unlikely to be beaten out considering his size, durability, and pass-rush potential. He’s 1-dimensional and can’t contribute at WILL or MIKE, but he plays special teams well, and is a high-effort vet.
Jasper Brinkley is a MIKE in name, but a run-stopper by trade. He will provide depth across the board and will see significant playing time in the rotation.
Check out: Jasper Brinkley Fits at SAM too
Next: CB: Bounce-back Seasons Ahead?