The Cowboys snagged one of the most talented players coming out of the college ranks when they selected linebacker Damone Clark in the fifth round. Clark, more than likely, wasn't going to make it out of the second round.

That is, until his herniated disk was discovered at the NFL Combine.

Andrew Clavenna, a Cowboys' team physician, is the person who caught Clark's injury. Veteran linebacker Leighton Vander Esch had a similar injury a few seasons ago, and the fact that he's back playing gives Clark confidence that he can do the same with the same staff helping him.

“That’s what made me even more comfortable is because I know Leighton had the same injury and Leighton is back on the field playing, and still playing at a really high level,’’ Clark said. “My confidence level is just so high.

“If you have someone like Leighton who had the same, exact injury and he’s back on the field, why wouldn’t I be back on the field, too?’’

Doctor Michael Boothby of the Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute in Fort Worth, Texas gave an in-depth analysis of Clark's injury and the timeline for his return last week which is anywhere from six months to a year (Clark had spinal fusion surgery in March). This means Clark can resume football activities and be on the field for the Cowboys by midseason or he will redshirt his rookie year.

Clark was taken by surprise like anyone would have when he heard about his herniated disk. Instead of getting down in the dumps about it, Clark is using something that his family believes in to guide him through his journey of returning to the field.

“My family is big on faith and big on Christ,’’ Clark said. “Everything happens for a reason.

“When I found out I was shocked, but I couldn’t even cry. I couldn’t even be mad about it because I know everything happens for a reason.

“I’m happy they did find it.’’

The Cowboys held their rookie minicamp last week. Despite not being able to do anything that involves physicality, Clark was in attendance, getting mental reps with his teammates – which speaks volumes about his character.

If Clark was fully healthy, he would likely be one of the Cowboys' starting linebackers to start the 2022 season: he's that talented. However, even though his progression was derailed for a while, Clark doesn't have sour grapes about his setback.

“Nah, I mean, everything happens for a reason in life,’’ Clark said. “I’m not mad about it. I’m just happy they found it and Dallas still picked me.

“I’m happy to be here.’’

The important thing now is for the Cowboys to be smart about Clark's situation. Of course, the anticipation for what Clark can bring to the Cowboys' defense is exciting, but his health comes before anything.

Feature image via Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports