Cowboys cut LB Rashaan Evans, activate OT Matt Waletzko
The Dallas Cowboys have made the decision to make a roster move ahead of Week 17. The organization elected to upgrade offensive tackle Matt Waletzko, a second-year player, as his activation window was about to expire. The Cowboys are also cutting veteran linebacker Rashaan Evans in a related move.
Following the placement of Leighton Vander Esch on injured reserve, Evans joined the Dallas practice squad.
Evans was added to the active roster after he ran out of eligible elevations. Although he struggled to obtain playing time, the former first-round choice occasionally had flashes of brilliance, as Markquese Bell and Damone Clark took the snaps.
Evans played in nine games for Dallas and recorded nine tackles. With the Cowboys down another linebacker, the position’s depth is again thin. The team is relatively healthy right now, and head coach Mike McCarthy mentioned that’s why this move was a tough decision. He also mentioned them addressing this situation later in the week, which might mean they could re-sign Evans to the practice squad if he clears waivers.
Regarding what this means for Waletzko, if the Cowboys elect to rest Terence Steele or Tyron Smith in the season finale because their postseason spot is assured, he may see some opening snaps.
After playing in three games as a rookie, Waletzko’s season was cut short due to a shoulder injury. Now in his third season with the team, 2024 will test the former fifth-round pick’s ability to find a spot on the squad.
Waletzko might get that chance with two games remaining in the regular season. If not, the clock will start to run next year.
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