Frisco, Texas — Two trades made internally, including Rashaan Evans and Matt Waletzko, ahead of the Dallas Cowboys' next game against the Detroit Lions, which head coach Mike McCarthy called the Dallas Cowboys' “biggest challenge” of the season. It was held in
Evans was waived by the club and Waletzko was activated from injured reserve and placed on the 53-man roster. The latter is now fully recovered from a shoulder injury that cost him most of the season, but he returned to add depth at offensive tackle.
Evans is eligible for waivers and can be acquired by any of the other 31 teams. If not, he would become an unrestricted free agent and could sign anywhere, but it would also open the door to a possible rejoining Dallas' practice squad.
Evans, a two-time national champion from the University of Alabama, was signed after Leighton Vander Esch was lost to a season-ending neck injury and started 67 games in his first five seasons with the Cowboys, including a starting career. joined. -In 2022, high numbers were recorded in both combined tackles (159), solo tackles (86), pass breakups (4), and fumble recoveries.
In 2018, he and the Cowboys took an official visit in preparation for that year's NFL Draft. The former first-team All-American was then selected by the Cowboys, who needed a linebacker, to select Vander Esch with the 19th overall pick, and the Tennessee Titans took Evans with the 22nd overall pick three picks later. .
Five years later, Evans arrived in Dallas to fill the void left by Vander Esch's injury, but after one or two flashes, his impact was inconsistently felt. . And the Cowboys' loss to the Dolphins emphasized that having quality depth at the tackle position is a higher priority.
Waletzko is a talented second-year lineman, but the first two seasons of his young career were hampered by shoulder issues. He will now get another chance to not only stay on the field, but to show that he can fulfill his potential.
When asked about the move during a press conference Wednesday morning, head coach Mike McCarthy said he would still make a decision on Rashaan Evans later in the week. That's because he is eligible for waivers and could return to Dallas' practice squad if cleared. .
“We'll have an answer by the end of the week,” McCarthy said. “I think it's important to be able to answer that at the time. These are roster moves, difficult moves. It's a bit of a Catch-22. We are a healthy football team and we hope to continue to be that way.” I hope so, but when?'' At this time of year, especially when it comes to young players, you start making plans, and that's why you have to make these difficult decisions. ”
As for Waleczko, McCarthy is looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the field in his second season.
“I felt the depth with Wally was beneficial,” he said. “We feel like Wally is ready. He's put in plenty of time in the weight room and training, and I think depth at the tackle position is important.”
