FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys cleared a roster spot on Tuesday by waiving fullback Nick Ralston. The vacant spot could be used for right tackle La’el Collins who is returning from his five-game suspension.
In addition, on Tuesday, cornerback Isaiah Johnson was released from the practice squad. If Ralston clears waivers, he is expected to return to the practice squad. An undrafted free agent out of Louisiana in his rookie year, Ralston was signed to the active roster (team released Brandon Knight) prior to the Cowboys’ meeting with the Patriots. For multiple weeks, he had been elevated from the practice squad for gameday. He played in the last four games on special teams registering one tackle.
The changes continued to begin the week. Starting free safety Damontae Kazee was arrested Tuesday morning at 3 a.m. in the Colony, a Dallas suburb and charged with driving while under the influence. According to reports, the 28-year-old failed a sobriety test resulting in a Class B misdemeanor charge for a first offense. Kazee posted the $2,500 bond and was released on Tuesday afternoon.
The arrest occurred as the team entered the bye week on a high note, a thrilling 35-29 overtime victory against the Patriots in Foxborough. The game marked the Cowboys’ fifth straight win and Kazee played an integral role in the secondary. He started all six games and amassed 17 tackles, one interception and a forced fumble.
The Cowboys were given a full week off during their bye week and as history can evidence, when players have additional free time, sometimes lapses in judgement occur. As is true for anyone.
On Monday, Mike McCarthy confirmed he gave the “be smart and be safe” speech to his players during the week leading into the bye.
“Talked about the distractions and what we don’t want. We have an outstanding season – 5-1, where we are. Make sure that everybody is taking care of themselves and spend as much time as they can with family and friends.”
