Cowboys: Who is making the 53-man cut?
By Reid Hanson
August 23, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; General view of the line of scrimmage during the first quarter between the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys at Levi
Offensive Line (9)
Ron Leary
La’el Collins
The backup situation on the offensive line looks frightening. Chaz Green, the swing tackle of the future, looks like he’s going start the season on the PUP, and may miss the season altogether after having offseason hip surgery.
OT Darrion Weems is the “next man up” so to speak, and he has looked pretty rough in his all-important backup role. The swing tackle is expected to provide depth to both tackle positions should an injury occur, and Weems has done little to instill faith in his ability to complete this task.
Weems has had trouble staying healthy in the past, and a limited amount seasoning. Because the Cowboys lack suitable competition at tackle, no one has been able to supplant Weems as the swing tackle so, for better or for worse, he’s probably going to make the cut.
Unless…
Rookie Laurence Gibson quietly had a great game as offensive tackle. If he can put together a similar performance in game 3, and do so against 1st or 2nd string competition, he could push Weems out of a spot. Right now, Weems has the edge, but this can change in a heartbeat.
Rookie La’el Collins has played very well in Ronald Leary’s absence but the starting guard spot is still Leary’s to lose. Leary excels in a man blocking scheme, and contrary to popular belief, the Cowboys do use man blocking schemes (MBS) over 30% of the time.
Starters Tyron Smith and Doug Free are obvious locks, Weems appears to be the favorite as the swing tackle, La’el Collins has been focusing at guard but has the versatility to play RT. Chaz Green will start on the PUP and can be added midseason if needed. Mackenzy Bernadeau offers excellent depth and versatility to center and both guard spots.
Total Offensive Players: 23
Next: The Defensive Side of Things...