Photo Credit: Vernon Hadnot
FRISCO, TEXAS — Veteran defensive back Brandon Carr is on the Cowboys’ practice squad for now but could be called upon at a moment’s notice to play.
With the new exemptions in place with the practice squad, two players can be activated each week to the 53-man roster to play without having to clear waivers and bringing the roster count to 55.
Carr is going into his 13th season in the league and has never missed a game throughout his career. He has played 192 games straight, including the longest portion of his career in Dallas from 2012-2016. He primarily played corner while wearing the Star but switched to safety later in his career with the Ravens.
In talking with media on Tuesday, Carr remarked, “ It is all about the journey…I’m blessed to be in this building. “
The 34-year-old will spend the week getting to know his teammates, learning the new playbook and verbiage, and the checks to his guy in coverage. Carr is staying ready for an opportunity to arise and will spend time getting acclimated to Mike Nolan’s new defense.
The coaching staff has not said exactly where he will play in the backfield with his prior experience at both safety and corner but Mike McCarthy is a fan of his versatility.
“ Just an excellent veteran football player, “ McCarthy stated on Carr. “Had a chance to compete against Brandon over the years and obviously he played well in Baltimore last year. The thing I’m very attracted to is his flexibility to play multiple positions. “
Many players on the roster shifted between both positions throughout camp to give the team options as an unprecedented NFL season kicks off amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Having versatile players is essential to the roster even more so than before.
Owner and general manager, Jerry Jones, seemed confident on 105.3 The Fan that Xavier Woods (groin) will play in Sunday’s opener against the Rams. The Cowboys released veteran safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix after Darian Thompson’s impressive camp. McCarthy noted earlier in the week that at cornerback, Chidobe Awuzie (knee) and Jourdan Lewis (ankle) will be “day-to-day decisions “ and the medical staff will have a better evaluation on Wednesday as the team returns to practice.
Having the flexibility of Carr is a bonus for the Cowboys’ secondary.
Chief operating officer/executive vice president, Stephen Jones, commented on Carr’s addition via 105.3 The Fan, “ You know we have a great history with Brandon. Last year, he really did a nice job with the Ravens playing some safety and nickel and some great matchups with tight ends. So, you know, he’s always been somebody that we really like in terms of having him surrounding the Dallas Cowboys. Certainly he takes great care of himself, and feel like getting him in here is going to be a big plus for us.”
With Sean Lee being placed on injured reserve and missing the first three games, the Cowboys will likely play more nickel packages bringing in an extra defensive back. Depending on how the next week goes, Carr could be brought up for Sunday’s game to play in the club’s nickel defense.
He would provide veteran experience at safety or cornerback and is preparing for when his number is called. He told media, “ I am ready to work and to make this team.” He has the longevity but wants a trophy.
