The Dallas Cowboys are approaching the end of the regular season, but their focus has already shifted to the upcoming NFL playoffs. In preparation, the team is bolstering its practice squad by bringing in four new players. Notably, former starting linebacker Damien Wilson is among the additions, along with offensive lineman La’el Collins, wide receiver Racey McMath, and running back SaRodorick Thompson.
The signings of Collins and Wilson are particularly noteworthy, considering both players previously held starting positions for the Cowboys. Wilson, selected in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL draft, contributed to the team for four seasons, participating in 64 games, including 22 starts.
Following his tenure with Dallas, Wilson joined the Kansas City Chiefs as a free agent in 2019, where he served as the starting middle linebacker for two seasons. His impactful performance played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory in the 2019 season, making two tackles in the championship game against San Francisco.
Cowboys News: Dallas Adds a Position of Need Ahead of NFL Playoffs
Guess who’s back?
La’el Collins and Damien Wilson are on the #Cowboys practice field for the first time since 2021 and 2018, respectively. pic.twitter.com/dWJz8lhlEp
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) January 4, 2024
Adding Wilson to the Dallas roster makes a lot of sense, especially considering the team’s thin depth at linebacker compared to other positions. The Cowboys faced setbacks with the loss of starter Leighton Vander Esch for the entire season and the recent release of Rashaan Evans.
Wilson’s career faced challenges due to off-field issues, leading to a four-week suspension by the NFL in November for violating the personal conduct policy. Despite his journey, he played a crucial role for the Jaguars in 2021, starting all 17 games, and contributed to all 17 games for the Carolina Panthers in 2022, including five starts.
Despite not having played an NFL snap this season, the impact Wilson will have in Dallas’ postseason remains uncertain. The Cowboys likely view Wilson as an insurance policy for the playoffs. Patrik Walker of DallasCowboys.com outlined Wilson’s expected role in his return to Dallas, noting that he rejoins a linebackers room that has undergone significant changes since his initial stint in 2018. The recent departure of Rashaan Evans leaves Damone Clark as the only other true linebacker on the active roster. Wilson is anticipated to provide both depth and mentoring to players like Clark and Markquese Bell.
In the event of his elevation, the Cowboys will look to Wilson for special teams production, a role he is familiar with. During his previous stint with Dallas from 2015 to 2018, he delivered over 1,300 special teams reps. In 2022, he added another 211 snaps on special teams for the Carolina Panthers.
The Baltimore Ravens Landed Dalvin Cook Over the Dallas Cowboys
With reports of Dalvin Cook signing with the Baltimore Ravens, fans might be a little upset. HOWEVER…#Cowboys Rico Dowdle vs Dalvin Cook:
🏈 Dowdle:
– 80 att, 315 yds, 2 TDs, 0 fum
– 3.9 yds per carry
– 231 yds after contact
– 6 rushes for 10+ yds
– 61.4 yds elusive rating… pic.twitter.com/K6ZcO80VhU— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) January 4, 2024
Dalvin Cook, a four-time Pro Bowl running back, had also been linked to the Cowboys. The experienced playmaker chose the Baltimore Ravens over the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys were interested in Cook, according to CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson.
“Fast Update: My understanding is that the Dallas Cowboys will also consider potentially adding Dalvin Cook,” Anderson said on X on January 3. “I’m still evaluating.” We’ll see where further interest develops.”