NFL teams traditionally play very few starters in the preseason finale, saving the exhibition as a last chance for bubble players, depth guys, and possible practice squadders to round out the bottom portion of the roster.
For one reserve looking to make a strong impression on the coaching staff and keep his primary backup status, though, he’ll likely have to rely on what he’s already shown.
Third-year tight end Luke Schoonmaker is expected to miss Friday’s home date versus Atlanta after taking a hit during Tuesday’s practice that required him to leave early. The second-round draft pick is currently in concussion protocol, according to head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
“Got dinged up a little bit, got a little concussion,” Schottenheimer told reporters Wednesday after the 26-year-old Michigan product sat out the day’s session. “I don’t think it’s anything significant, but he’s in the protocol.”
With Jake Ferguson firmly entrenched as TE1, Schoonmaker is facing stiff competition as Brevyn Spann-Ford has impressed this summer, but he’s nursing a high ankle sprain and will also miss the Falcons matchup.
“Brevyn’s doing better, again no timetable for his return. He’s doing great, working his butt off.” Schottenheimer said per the team website.
Rookie Tyler Neville, the feel-good inspiration looking to make a mark during camp, has been involved in several dust-ups with teammates during practices. His most recent occurred Tuesday when he dropped defensive end James Houston and took a retaliatory shove from linebacker Damone Clark.
John Stephens Jr. is trying to come back from ACL injuries the past two seasons; Princeton Fant and rookie UDFA Rivaldo Fairweather are also vying for snaps as final roster cuts rapidly approach.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: 3rd-year bubble player suffers concussion at most inopportune time for roster chances
Reporting by Todd Brock, Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
