Robert Turbin could get an early welcome into the Dallas Cowboys' offense in Week 11. After signing earlier in the week following a release from the Cleveland Browns, Turbin could be inserted very quickly as Darren McFadden's name popped up on the injury report. The running back depth already sparse following the injury to Lance Dunbar and exits of Joseph Randle and Christine Michael, it could be Turbin that gets the nod if McFadden is not healthy.
According to ESPN's Todd Archer, McFadden is dealing with a groin injury which is keeping him limited in practice and potentially could force him out of the game Sunday against the Dolphins. McFadden dealt with an injury to his hamstring early in the season and now the groin issue is a problem. The running back is not known for playing a full season and this could be the issue that sets him back. That would be a huge hit for the Cowboys' offense who is now getting Tony Romo back on the field and looking to start stacking up the wins. With McFadden out, Turbin could get the starting nod while Rod Smith and Trey Williams have yet to develop. According to offensive coordinator Scott Linehan, Turbin will impress.
"This guy is a veteran," Linehan said, via ESPN.com. "He's played. He can make that transformation because of that veteran-ism to flip what they call protection -- he's been in a couple places now -- to what we do. I think that's the thing he is showing. He is really a strong kid. You can see the body strength in the run game. We've had two practices with him out there. He carries his pads really well. What I have seen -- it's been 24 hours, two practices -- real impressed. I think he is going to be a really good addition for our team."
The Cowboys are looking for momentum and having McFadden out would certainly hinder that from happening. Another issue creeping in is the injury to Dez Bryant who has been sitting out with foot and ankle issues. He is expected to play in Week 11 regardless, but his chemistry with Romo is uncertain. The two have been trying to get back in sync with one another, but injuries have limited that effort. Will it be an issue heading into the game against the Dolphins?
"I think just knowing how the process of weeks are, you want it to be as normal as possible," Romo said, via ESPN.com. "At the same time, it's not in the best interest in the torque you put on your back to go four out of five days, plus coming back on a short week, getting ready to go [next week on Thanksgiving]. You're going to end up throwing the football, putting that torque on consistently, a hair too much if you push it. We threw a little bit earlier in the week."
The return of Romo will certainly boost Bryant's value along with Jason Witten and Terrance Williams. Everyone on the team has confidence a major comeback is set to take place. Week 11 will prove if that can be true.
