As the Dallas Cowboys approach the conclusion of their training camp in Oxnard, the team's strengths and weaknesses are becoming clearer. The offense, led by quarterback Dak Prescott and featuring prominent wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, is expected to be a strong point for the team.
However, concerns remain regarding the depth of the offensive line. The starting five players are set, but the Cowboys are still determining the best configurations for their backups. Following their first preseason game, adjustments have been made to find the optimal lineup.
A key area of focus is the backup center position, especially after veteran Matt Hennessy was placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury before training camp. This development has created a significant gap in the offensive line's depth, prompting the Cowboys to turn to T.J. Bass as the primary second-string center, despite his lack of prior experience in that role.
Bass, a fourth-year undrafted free agent, is regarded as the best backup offensive lineman on the roster, primarily excelling as a guard. He received a second-round tender in the offseason, which guarantees him a salary of $5.76 million, indicating the team's confidence in his abilities. In the first preseason game, Bass started at center for two series before being replaced by veteran Nick Leverett.
Leverett, who was signed to the practice squad in November and later secured a futures contract, has more experience at guard but has one career start at center from 2024. In a recent practice after the preseason win, Leverett was seen taking extensive snaps as the backup center while Bass returned to guard.
The Cowboys may be considering Leverett as a viable option for the backup center position, which could allow Bass to return to his preferred guard role. Last season, starter Cooper Beebe missed six games due to injury, with Brock Hoffman stepping in effectively. However, Hoffman was allowed to leave during free agency, leading to the current situation.
