The Dallas Cowboys are dealing with a lot of unwanted injuries at this point in the preseason. Dez Bryant is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Darren McFadden and Joseph Randle are dealing with issues. Now, the defense is beginning to get hit hard as a season-ending injury in the secondary will force other options to step up and perform. Orlando Scandrick was carted off the field on Tuesday with a season-ending knee injury that has the secondary in flux.
According to ESPN's Todd Archer, Scandrick told him in a text message that he has torn his ACL and MCL and is expected to miss the entire 2015 season. The cornerback was injured during team practice and immediately carted off the field. Scandrick knee immediately he has torn his ACL after his knee buckled while breaking up a pass during practice. The injury now leaves questions in the secondary with the third preseason game around the corner.
Brandon Carr is already out with a broken hand. He is slowly returning to action after undergoing surgery, but there is no guarantee on what his timetable is with the team. As a result, Morris Claiborne will be relied upon heavily. According to the Dallas Morning News, Claiborne has gone from potential roster cut to starting cornerback in place of Scandrick. Secondary coach Jerome Henderson is confident that Claiborne steps up to the role simply because he has no other choice.
"If we do lose a player like that for the season, we hate to do that, but we won't miss a beat," Henderson said, via the Morning News. "We'll keep plugging the next guy in. Again, we like our depth at that position. Again, our depth is going to be tested. So we'll see."
Byron Jones is another player that will likely move up the depth chart. The first-round draft pick has been hot and cold so far in the preseason, but must step up with the injury to Scandrick. The rookie is currently dealing with a shoulder injury that is keeping him off the field. While he is not experiencing severe pain, he has yet to make his way back and the Cowboys need him to return quickly.
Rookies will be tested in Dallas. Randy Gregory is learning that, not because of injuries at his position, but because of suspensions. While Greg Hardy is expected to lead the pass rush, the rookie is stepping up while he serves his suspension. Gregory has shown great moments in the preseason, but Dallas needs more from the young star.
