Dallas Cowboys: What does Randy Gregory’s reinstatement mean?

The Dallas Cowboys got some exciting news on Tuesday when the NFL declared that Randy Gregory would be cleared to return to the field.

The Dallas Cowboys got some great news today as the team will see the return of Randy Gregory. The NFL has announced that Randy Gregory will be reinstated following a lengthy suspension for using banned substances (marijuana). He will return on a conditional basis and will be permitted to attend training camp.

The decision was somewhat shocking considering how much luck Dallas has had with the league over the last few years when it comes down to that sort of thing. If anything it shows that Gregory has been fully committed to following all the steps necessary to return to the NFL.

After his third violation of the substance abuse policy Cowboys fans wondered if that would be the last time they saw Gregory, however, he has since proven otherwise. There has been an undercurrent of players looking to make a big comeback either because of injury or suspension, the former Nebraska Cornhusker can now join that list.

More from Dallas Cowboys

• Why the Dallas Cowboys wisely decided against signing Dalvin Cook
• West coast, Texas coast, burnt toast: Cowboys don’t need more runs
• Brandin Cooks will change the way defenses play the Dallas Cowboys
• Why the Dallas Cowboys defensive X-Factor is EDGE Sam Williams
• Dallas Cowboys: 3 head coach options if McCarthy fails in 2023

During his time with the Huskers, Gregory was a disruptive force rushing the passer and often set the tone for the entire defensive unit. If he could even recapture a fraction of that talent, he will give the Dallas Cowboys defense a serious boost. 

Let’s take a look at what his return could mean for the Dallas Cowboys.

Gregory was projected to be an elite pass rusher coming out of Nebraska who admittedly had some red flags. No one knew at the time that Gregory would barely see the field during his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys.

Now that is all about to change as Gregory could finally be on the field for a full season. He seems mentally prepared to return to the NFL and take on his critics as there will be a lot of eyes on him. This is the last year of his contract and realistically, he will need a stellar season to keep him on the Cowboys roster.

He should be competing with players like Charles Tapper, Datone Jones, Kony Ealy, and Dorance Armstrong for a roster spot, however, he could push for more snaps depending on his conditioning and effectiveness. It is a huge get for the Dallas Cowboys as they now have a former second-round pick back in action.

Gregory only has one sack to his name and 14 appearances in NFL contests however he flashed some serious talent during that time period. If Gregory has been keeping himself in shape and mentally ready he should become one of the more reliable options rushing the passer.

Next: Dallas Cowboys: Lawrence will have to wait for a new contract

The Dallas Cowboys went about their business and acted as if they would not have Gregory for the 2018 season. It is still relatively unknown if this changes any plans they had, but that is what training camp is for and starting July 24th, the Nebraska alum will once again be on the field for the Cowboys.