Dallas Cowboys at San Diego Chargers: Five Things to Follow

Aug 1, 2015; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive ends Greg Hardy (76) and Randy Gregory (94) at training camp at River Ridge Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys Defensive Line Rotation

The Dallas Cowboys defensive rotation remains a mystery to everyone, including those in the Cowboys coaching ranks. The top of the rotation are set with DeMarcus Lawrence, Greg Hardy, Jeremy Mincey, Tyrone Crawford, and Nick Hayden playing primary roles.

What will be interesting to see is who the Cowboys have rotating into the 3-technique DT spot and who plays singular roles. Ben Gardner and Ryan Russell are two players who have seen time both inside and out. If the Cowboys are serious about keeping them, they will likely rotate them into the middle during the game.

Randy Gregory is another question mark in this rotation. He factors into the nickel defense serving as the RDE. Will the Cowboys try him exclusively here or will they experiment and move him around? It’s even possible the lean rookie pass-rusher could line up in a LB role and used as a stand-up blitzer. The options are aplenty with young Gregory.

Another important thing to look for is who will be rotating in when facing a short yardage situation. Who is Rod Marinelli looking at to stop a charging offense? A player like Ken Bishop doesn’t do much in the pass-rush department but he may be the best pure run-stopper the Cowboys have to anchor the middle.

Next: Two Additions