The Dallas Cowboys signed defensive end Michael Sam to their practice squad after he was released by the St. Louis Rams during the final day of roster cuts. Many have heralded this as the best opportunity for Sam to make an NFL roster given the Cowboys lack of depth at the position, coupled with some injuries along the defensive line.
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Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones isn’t quite so sure that he is ready yet. He does see it as an opportunity for the Cowboys to refine his skill and potentially have him grow into the type of player they need. With Rod Marinelli as the defensive coordinator, Sam stands to learn a lot and improve greatly.
“We are looking for pressure, for pressure players and that’s his position,” Jones said, via The Associated Press. “He’s from Texas. A practice squad player first and foremost has to be very good at helping the Cowboys practice. By the definition, that’s what it’s about. They are the team that we work against, be it our offense or defense. But it’s a chance to develop players as well.
“To get a player that has shown success at being able to rush the passer, that’s what he was in college, he was outstanding at it. We hope that he can refine his skills. He’s not ready to go at all, but can he come in and learn?”
Jon Machota of the