FRISCO, Texas – On Monday, good and bad news came out of the Cowboys’ headquarters. Six-time pro bowl right guard Zack Martin was activated from the Reserve/COVID-19 list along with backup offensive lineman Brandon Knight. However, starting defensive end Randy Gregory was placed on the Reserve/COVID list.
Gregory’s availability for Sunday’s Week 2 matchup against the Chargers is in question. His timeline for return depends on whether he tested positive or was a close contact designation. Also, if he is asymptomatic or not. The Cowboys have not disclosed that information. If Gregory is asymptomatic and has the vaccine which shortens the length of time away from the facility, he will then have to produce two negative tests separated by a 24-hour period.
In Week 1 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gregory played 37 snaps and notched one fumble recovery and a tackle. He completed a full offseason program leading up to the season opener for the first time since his rookie year in 2015.
Gregory becomes the 10th Cowboy to be placed on the COVID list since training camp began in July, following Martin, Knight, Carlos Watkins, Connor Williams, Malik Hooker, Israel Mukuamu, Noah Brown, CeeDee Lamb, and Damontae Kazee.
Martin did not play against the Buccaneers, but the premier run blocker will return against the Chargers. A much-needed presence as the team prepares for right tackle La’el Collins to miss five games to a suspension for violating the NFL’s Policy on Substances of Abuse. The Cowboys could move Martin to right tackle and keep Connor McGovern at right guard, who filled in for Martin against the Buccaneers. Martin started two games at right tackle last year due to a myriad of injuries along the line and excelled. Or the team could look to fill the spot with Ty Nsekhe or Terence Steele to start.
Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore told media, “It’s all open to discussion and we’ll see where it takes us.”
On Monday, Dallas also placed wide receiver Michael Gallup on the Reserve/Injured list. He suffered a calf strain in the second half of the game against Tampa Bay and will be eligible to return after a three-week minimum. Cedrick Wilson will become the team’s No. 3 receiver on the depth chart, replacing Gallup.
