Denison, Texas, is located approximately 100 miles northwest of Dallas.
The Dallas Cowboys organization has made several roster adjustments ahead of the season. Starting guard Tyler Smith is sidelined for at least the first month with a thumb injury. To fill that gap, the team promoted Nick Leverett from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster.
Leverett will back up new starter TJ Bass. He previously played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, and Arizona Cardinals before joining Dallas last season.
The Cowboys also signed veteran offensive lineman Laken Tomlinson to the practice squad. Tomlinson was a first-round pick in 2015 and has started 162 career games. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2020 and most recently played for the Houston Texans. At 34 years old, he brings significant experience to the team.
In other news, ESPN released its annual poll of NFL executives and scouts regarding award candidates. The survey identified head coach Brian Schottenheimer as a contender for Coach of the Year. This follows a 7-10 season record and suggests experts view Dallas as a strong NFC East contender. An NFC scout noted quarterback Dak Prescott’s potential and an improved defense.
The poll also named safety Caleb Downs as the favorite for Defensive Rookie of the Year. Other predictions included Joe Burrow for MVP, Jahmyr Gibbs for Offensive Player of the Year, Will Anderson Jr. for Defensive Player of the Year, Jadarian Price for Offensive Rookie of the Year, Patrick Mahomes for Defensive Player of the Year, and Matthew Golden for Breakout Player of the Year.
