The Cowboys took a considerable hit to their linebackers corps this offseason when they lost Bruce Carter and Justin Durant in free agency. But questions still revolve around Sean Lee and Rolando McClain — can they be counted on during the season?
This is a fair question, and the Cowboys know this, which is why they have done their due diligence by stockpiling linebackers. The Cowboys added Keith Rivers and Jasper Brinkley in free agency as a starting point, but they also drafted Damien Wilson and Mark Nzeocha. The Cowboys also recently added free agent Kyle Knox as part of their plan to bolster their bodies at the position.
All these moves scream insurance policies for Sean Lee and Rolando McClain, and you cannot deny the history there for both players. Sean Lee has amassed too many missed games over his career; since his rookie year, he has missed 34 games. That equates to a little over two full seasons worth or games — incredible. Make no mistake, I’m a big fan of Lee, he’s a huge playmaker when he’s on the field, but you have to be on the field to help this team out, and the defense needs help.
We all know Rolando McClain’s deal and it’s something the Cowboys have been able to manage to a degree with smart contracts that protect the team financially. The Cowboys gave McClain a 1-yr deal this offseason and it could be the last one if there isn’t more consistency on and off the field.
McClain was recently cited by the NFL for failing a third drug test, meaning he was fined four games checks. Another failed test and McClain will face a mandated four game suspension. Like Lee, McClain has the blue-chip pedigree, but his various issues have kept him from the field and raised concerns on whether or not he can be trusted with a long term contract.
So, who do you think will play more games for the Cowboys this season? Take the poll!
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