Injuries have started to pile up at Dallas Cowboys training camp, as several players either missed or left Tuesday’s practice early.
The most notable injuries were to rookie first-round pick Mazi Smith and starting center Tyler Biadasz.
Smith missed practice to get an MRI on what the team has described as “tendonitis” in his knee, while Biadasz fell over a defender who was blocked into him on a play during the 11-on-11 team period.
Both are expected to be okay.
Biadasz, a fourth-round selection in the 2020 NFL draft, made the Pro Bowl last season in his second year as the starting center. He is one of four returning offensive linemen perceived to have solidified a starting role alongside Tyron Smith, Tyler Smith, and Zack Martin.
Smith is a critical player for the Dallas defense as it looks to improve at stopping the run. His size and strength in the middle of the defensive line allow him to control gaps and free up plays for the rest of the unit when he is not making them himself. stats
With Biadasz out and Zack Martin still holding out over his contract, undrafted second-year lineman Brock Hoffman took over at center, as backup center Matt Farniok saw time at guard. Hoffman saw action in three games last season.
Rookie fourth-round pick Viliami Fehoko also missed Tuesday’s practice with a shoulder strain, while wide receiver David Durden suffered a concussion.
Dallas has already been dealing with injuries at crucial positions this offseason.
Starting running back Tony Pollard is still working his way back from a leg injury that ended his season in the playoffs, while backup Ronald Jones is dealing with a groin injury. Rookie tight end Luke Schoonmaker just started practicing on Monday, and starting safety Donovan Wilson is out for four to six weeks.
Defensive back Jourdan Lewis has yet to practice, and Israel Mukuamu is out with a “multi-week” injury, according to head coach Mike McCarthy.
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EXTRA POINTS
— While KaVontae Turpin has proven he can return kicks, the Cowboys want to see what’s can do as a receiver in the preseason.
— Trevon Diggs intercepted Dak Prescott twice on Tuesday.
— The Cowboys will host their annual “Cowboys Night” on August 22 at the Ford Center in Frisco.
— Running back Kareem Hunt did not end up signing with eh New Orleans Saints as expected on Tuesday and is now visiting the Indianapolis Colts.
— Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle left Wednesday’s practice with an injury.
— The Minnesota Vikings are not concentrated on re-signing quarterback Kirk Cousins ahead of the season.
— Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs has been sentenced to three to 10 years in prison for his involvement in a fatal car crash that also resulted in a DUI in 2021.
