Stephen Jones: Tyrone Crawford’s replacement already on roster
By Mike Dyce
Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Tyrone Crawford suffered a season-ending Achilles injury early on in training camp. The Dallas Cowboys are already struggling for defensive lineman in the switch from the 3-4 to the 4-3, and they’re defensive front took another injury hit.
They’ve already lost defensive tackle Josh Brent to retirement following a intoxication manslaughter charge. Defensive tackle Jay Ratliff suffered a hamstring injury during a conditioning test on Sunday. DeMarcus Ware is still recovering from a shoulder injury though is expected to be a full participant in training camp.
But Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones said the Cowboys won’t look to free agents to fill the hole created by Crawford’s injury.
“The guy that will replace Crawford is already on the roster,” Jones said, via the team’s official website. “We certainly like the guys on our roster better than anyone that is out there.”
Crawford is a defensive end, but in the new scheme he was expected to float between tackle and end.
“He’s a guy that can play end and tackle,” Jones said. “It just makes you sick because we really had high hopes for him this year.”
“Crushing,” he said Monday morning. “Absolutely crushing.”
John Abraham is a defensive end who is still a free agent. Former Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton is also available.
But remember, they aren’t considering free agents.
Other free agent defensive lineman include:
- Richard Seymour, DT
- Justin Bannan, DT
- Shaun Cody, DT