With Cam Fleming now having swung over to the New York Giants, the Dallas Cowboys are in need of a new backup at offensive tackle. One player they could consider is free agent Jason Spriggs, a former second-round pick of the Packers who played three seasons for Mike McCarthy.
Spriggs was drafted 48th overall in 2016 after Green Bay traded up nine spots to grab him. He was scouted as having starting potential as a left tackle, possessing athleticism and size but still needing to develop strength and technique.
Things didn’t work out that way for Jason with the Packers. He never emerged as a regular starter but did start nine games in relief duty over three seasons.
Spriggs battled his own injuries throughout his time in Green Bay. Hamstring and knee issues cost him nine games in 2017, and then he was waived/injured by the Packers in early August of 2019 after missing time in training camp with another injury.
Granted, Packers fans probably feel about Spriggs the same way many of us remember Chaz Green in Dallas. But we’re not looking for a future starter at either offensive tackle spot.
All the Cowboys needs is a guy who can play left tackle in a pinch. At the very least, Jason Spriggs should at least be able to provide competition for in-house options like Brandon Knight and Mitch Hyatt.
After losing Fleming in free agency Dallas is left with little in experienced depth at offensive tackle. Knight started one game last year at right tackle and Hyatt spent the year on the practice squad.
Hyatt was a champion left tackle for a few years at Clemson, but he went undrafted in 2019 based on his own size and strength concerns.
If Knight doesn’t have the skills to play left tackle, and if Hyatt either isn’t ready or just doesn’t have enough offer, perhaps Spriggs would offer a superior option for swing tackle.
Obviously there’s plenty of risk here given Jason’s failed time in Green Bay. But if Mike McCarthy and Offensive Line Coach Joe Philbin still believe there’s something there, a bargain could be had on a guy who once had second-round potential and just needs to finally stay healthy.
Dallas may have their eye on more proven veteran free agents, or may already feel confident enough in Brandon Knight. But if they’re looking for a guy on the cheap who may have some upside, Jason Spriggs could help intensify the competition at swing tackle.
