Dallas Cowboys DE Randy Gregory Ready for Likely Debut
It's a new chapter for Defensive End Randy Gregory as he's finally eligible to play again. It's been a wild ride for the 27-year-old, but he hopes to stick around to the playing field this time. And boy, do the Dallas Cowboys need him to as the defensive woes continue. Although Gregory is eligible to […]
It's a new chapter for Defensive End Randy Gregory as he's finally eligible to play again. It's been a wild ride for the 27-year-old, but he hopes to stick around to the playing field this time. And boy, do the Dallas Cowboys need him to as the defensive woes continue.
Although Gregory is eligible to play, Head Coach Mike McCarthy spoke about his status being tied to special teams' needs.
If Gregory does play, though, he'll be joining a struggling defense. Through six weeks, the Dallas Cowboys have allowed over 36 points per game. The unit's biggest strength was expected to be the pass rush, but it hasn't been able to shine because they've been playing while trailing all season.
Other than Aldon Smith, the Cowboys defensive line has failed to meet expectations. Not only in the interior but the exterior as well.DeMarcus Lawrence has been limited to only 54% of the defensive snaps. Everson Griffen hasn't been his former self.
But Randy Gregory could become a new positive on this Cowboys' team. Although his career has been plagued with suspensions, Gregory has played well even on short notice. When available, he's been able to create consistent pressure.
This time, he's been preparing to get back since he was reinstated in September. He's been able to practice with the team since October 5, so he isn't just now getting back to the football field.
The last we saw from Gregory was a dominant 14-game season in 2018. Although he played in less than 50% of the team's defensive snaps, Gregory managed to dominate. He racked up six sacks,15 QB hurries, and 19 solo tackles.
If Randy Gregory gets his first shot at playing versus Washington Football Team, he should be in for a feast. Washington has allowed 28 sacks in the season, most in the NFL. They're also 32nd in Football Outsiders' adjusted sack rate, which adjusts for down, distance, and opponent.
QB Kyle Allen isn't much of a threat, as Washington's passing offense also ranks dead last in the league.
If the Dallas Cowboys are able to play at least a little bit better on defense this Sunday, they have a chance of winning despite dealing with plenty of injuries. The Cowboys struggled even against the New York Giants, but Washington's offense might be worse. Oddly enough, it's the defense that might need to carry the offense this week. After all, Washington's defense is a force to be reckoned with.
But more importantly, the Giants didn't face Randy Gregory. If activated, he's the player Cowboys' fans should keep an eye on. It'll be important to evaluate his performance but also his playing time.
Featured Image via Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
