Latest injury update confirms Dallas Cowboys fan favorite’s fate is not sealed just yet
The Dallas Cowboys undrafted rookie has a chance to play in the preseason finale based on his practice participation on Wednesday, and that could be the key ot make the 53-man roster.
It’s easy for football fans to fall in love with a rookie. Particularly one with the makings of an underdog, like those who go undrafted. The Dallas Cowboys preseason has witnessed two such figures emerge this preseason. And after Wednesday’s injruy update, both might end up making the 53-man roster: wide receiver Camden Brown and tight end Michael Trigg.
The update has nothing to do with wide Brown, who is the safer of the two players right now. His high production in two preseason games plus a strong training camp will make him a tough cut, as the Cowboys would have to risk him to the waiver wire. Even if it means carrying six wide receivers on the 53, I expect the Cowboys to do so (though it’s not a guarantee).
But tight end Michael Trigg has a tougher path as he navigated a toe injury that forced him to miss multiple practices and the second game of the preseason. The injury raised speculation that the Cowboys might be gearing up to stash him on Injured Reserve to save a roster spot without risking him to waivers.
But all that changed on Wednesday, when head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed his return to the field ahead of the final practice of training camp.
Trigg back at practice before preseason finale
The Cowboys confirming Trigg is back at practice two days before the preseason finale is no small thing. For starters, it seemingly makes it less likely for the team to stash him on IR. If that was the plan all along, why bring him back to the field now?
Additionally, the Cowboys appear to be very comfortable with Jake Ferguson, Brevyn Spann-Ford (neither has played in the preseason), and Luke Schoonmaker at tight end.
Trigg needs to convince the coaching staff his pass-catching is something Schoonmaker can’t bring to the table. And his best chance is to keep getting chances to catch the football. If he can do it in an exhibition game, that only raises his stock around the league and thus harder to cut.
Trigg can be Cowboys TE1 on Friday
Right now, he’s right on that roster bubble. His best chance to secure a spot is going off against the New Orleans Saints. And if he can go, he should have a very high snap count.
With this being the preseason finale, chances are Schoonmaker plays very limited snaps. I don’t dismiss the possibility of him not playing at all with a roster spot secured. Meanwhile, fellow rookie DJ Rogers missing Wednesday’s practice puts his game status in question. That leaves Trigg and roster long shots Zack Kuntz and Mitchell Van Vooren (who was signed as a result of Trigg and Rogers’ injuries).
We’ll see how Wednesday’s practice goes and if he indeed is given the green light for Friday night.
