Signed in free agency as a potential starter, Rob Jones will not play for the Cowboys this year.
The veteran guard was placed on season-ending IR on Friday. The move opens up a needed roster spot for running back Malik Davis.
But Jones suffered a broken bone in his neck during the first padded-practice in Oxnard back on Aug. 27. The initial prognosis was a 2-3 month rehab with the possibility Jones could go to short-term IR with a chance to return later in the season. But the Cowboys have now decided Jones will no longer be able to return.
Jones, who started all 17 games last season for Miami, was signed in March as a possible replacement for Zack Martin at right guard. However, the Cowboys decided to draft Tyler Booker with the No. 12 overall pick and now Booker is scheduled to start at right guard.
Entering camp, Jones was one of six projected backups on the offensive line with starting experience. He has 30 career starts in his career, more than half coming last year with the Dolphins at right guard.
His injury certainly affects the Cowboys’ depth in the middle. Still, Brock Hoffman and T.J. Bass have starting experience, as does Saahdiq Charles, who has played guard. The Cowboys also have tackles Asim Richards and Hakeem Adeniji with starting experience on the O-line.
Another veteran on the O-line dealing with injuries is Dakoda Shepley, who plays both guard and center. He had to leave Thursday’s practice early due to an injury.
The Cowboys will likely play mostly backups on the O-line Saturday in the preseason opener against the Rams at SoFi Stadium.
