Though not the same extent so far as in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to effect the normal order of NFL business. No sooner do the Dallas Cowboys get Guard Zack Martin back from the COVID list than they lose Defensive End Randy Gregory, who’s now in reserve status due to potential exposures.
In addition to Martin, Dallas also welcomes back Brandon Knight from the COVID list. The backup guard and offensive tackle was also out for Week 1.
Not related to the pandemic, Wide Receiver Michael Gallup was placed on injured reserve today due to his calf injury from Week 1. With Gallup going to IR and Gregory to the Reserve/COVID list, Dallas had the openings needed for Martin and Knight to rejoin the roster.
Martin and Knight were both out last week as Dallas narrowly lost the season opener in Tampa Bay. In a game that came down to the very last seconds, having an All-Pro talent like Zack on the field could have very well turned things in the Cowboys’ favor.
Unfortunately, now the offensive line may be dealing with an extended absence from OT La’el Collins during a five-game suspension. However, reports have Collins still seeking to appeal the league’s decision.
While losing Collins hurts, getting Martin back at right guard will go a long way to helping Dallas overcome the obstacle. Knight could also be an option for assistance, having played well at right tackle in 2019 when Collins missed a couple of games.
We already knew that Gallup would be missing some time following Thursday’s injury. He was taken out of the game and is expected to miss 3-5 weeks. Cedrick Wilson will get a lot more targets now on offense, and has proven that he can do well in a larger role.
Unfortunately, Dallas has no Cedrick Wilsons among their defensive ends. Losing Randy Gregory is a huge blow for the defense and without nearly the same proven depth behind him.
It’s a big opportunity for 4th-year backup Dorance Armstrong, one of the stars of the 2021 preseason and a guy looking to make noise in a contract year. We saw Armstrong nearly force a fumble from Tom Brady in Week 1 and he will likely get the biggest bump in playing time from Gregory’s absence.
However, Randy still has a chance at getting out of the COVID protocol before Sunday’s kickoff against the Chargers. Being fully vaccinated and not showing symptoms, Gregory only has to produce two negative tests 24 hours apart to be cleared to rejoin the team and play in Los Angeles.
