Cowboys DC Rod Marinelli likes Michael Sam’s ‘quickness and instincts’

Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys practice squad player Michael Sam watches warm ups before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys practice squad player Michael Sam watches warm ups before the game against the San Francisco 49ers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys signed defensive lineman Michael Sam after he was released by the St. Louis Rams as they trimmed their roster to 53 men at the end of the preseason. Sam is only on the practice squad, but it has been heralded as a great fit for Sam because the Cowboys need depth along the defensive line.

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Sam has earned some praise from defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli though who shed some light into Sam’s progress since making the move to North Texas.

“He’s done some good things,” Marinelli said. “The only thing he really gets is some of our individual periods and then he gets some one-on-one rushes on Wednesday, and I think he’s gotten a little bit better.

“But it’s tougher for a practice squad guy because these other guys here, they’re pounding with all week long in terms of fundamentals and game-planning and those things. So it’s a little tougher, but he’s got movement. I like his quickness and his instincts. He’s got really good work habits, so just keep working to develop him.”