Another blow to the Dallas Cowboys defense. Specifically, the linebackers group. What is already a group depleted of depth is even smaller now.

Veteran LB Devante Bond hasn't played in an NFL regular season game since October 8, 2020. After spending much of the 2021 season on the practice squad, Bond was looking to get back to the field. Unfortunately, he will have to wait another year to do so after suffering a season-ending knee injury during Thursday's practice.

Linebacker Devante Bond, who spent time last year on the practice squad, suffered a serious knee injury in the earlier OTAs and will miss the season once he undergoes surgery, according to multiple sources.

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) June 9, 2022

So what does this mean for the rest of the LBs?

Micah Parsons is the obvious defensive headliner, and Jabril Cox and Leighton Vander Esch are the likely starters beside him. With the loss of Bond, it's made a tight competition for 2-3 extra roster spots even more wide open.

There are speculations out there for the Cowboys to seek out free agent help. But they continue to show that money talks loudest.

Undrafted rookie free agent, Markquese Bell, has taken snaps at both linebacker and safety. He's already reportedly on the inside track to make the team, and this only helps his case. An A to ZSports Dallas favorite, Bell's versatility and lack of veteran presence behind him really helps his chances.

In the similar breathe to Bell is Jayron Kearse, who's role as a hybrid safety/LB, aka the STAR position, only lessens the gap unless he's designated as a safety.

Both these players play similar roles, but if they're put on the roster as safeties, it opens the roster even more to other players.

Players like Devin Harper and undrafted free agents Aaron Hansford. Both were part of the Dallas Cowboys official visits during the draft period. Both with abilities to grow into starters down the line, but would be probable special teams assets in year one. The same goes for fellow undrafted LB Storey Jackson.

Harper is the athlete, Jackson is the play-maker and Hansford is the most technically sound. All three of these players are real possibilities to make the 53-man roster to start the season.

Especially with fifth round pick Damone Clark's 2022 season up in the air.

Even if Clark sees the field in 2022, it won't be until halfway through the season at the earliest, as he rehabs a herniated disc. If he comes back with a full bill of health, he's got as much upside as any rookie the Dallas Cowboys drafted.

Losing Devante Bond is a big blow for his return to the field, but it does present opportunity. The opportunity for many of these young, stud players to take a roster spot.

What looks like a position devoid of depth, is going to see a youthful rejuvenation at a position of need.

Mandatory Credit: Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports