The Dallas Cowboys are unsurprisingly elevating linebacker Rashaan Evans from the practice squad ahead of their Week 10 contest against the New York Giants, the team announced.
That will mark his third elevation of the season, which is the maximum for any player per NFL rules. In other words, the news means a domino effect is in the horizon.
To play Evans beyond this week, the Cowboys will need to sign him to the 53-man roster, which appears likely considering how thin they are at the position.
It's worth noting that although Evans played zero defensive snaps against the Philadelphia Eagles last weekend, the game marked the second week where he's significantly contributed to special teams. He's averaged a 66% snap count through two games.
Assuming the Cowboys do want Evans signed to the 53-man roster following this weekend's game (again, this is likely), they'll have to open up a slot. Barring any major injury, it's difficult to find where the corresponding cut will be made. The best guess? I'm going with undrafted rookie linebacker Tyrus Wheat, who was promoted to the 53-man roster in mid-October.
It's no easy call, though, as Wheat has been a significant special teams contributor in each of his three games played. The Cowboys have a tough choice to make. Waiving him would also mean risking him to the wire, and the coaching staff seems to like his versatility.
Evans provides experience on defense for depth purposes, so he'll still likely get the nod over someone else.
Cowboys WR Martavis Bryant will not play versus the Giants
The Cowboys did not elevate Martavis Bryant for their Week 10, which should come as no surprise to fans. Bryant himself admitted he needs to get in "football shape" before competing. He likely won't get on the field anytime soon as he was more of a depth signing.
Instead, the Cowboys opted to not elevate anyone else other than Evans, the same as in Week 9.
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