Dallas Cowboys

Jerry Jones says Randy Gregory 'absolutely' will play final two games

Published Dec. 20, 2016 11:34 a.m. ET

Cameron DaSilva

The Dallas Cowboys are desperate for a lift along their defensive line, ranking towards the bottom of the league in sacks and quarterback pressures. Fortunately, they just might get it in the final two weeks.

Owner Jerry Jones said on 105.3 The Fan Tuesday that Randy Gregory will “absolutely” play in the team’s final two games while he awaits the NFL’s ruling on another looming suspension.

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Gregory has served his 14-game suspension – the combination of a 10-game and four-game ban – and is now eligible to return to the field. He’s reportedly still facing a year-long suspension for another violation of the league’s substance abuse policy, but he’s allowed to play while it’s under review.

The 2015 second-round pick has had a rough start to his NFL career, serving two suspensions in addition to battling a high-ankle sprain as a rookie. He’s had little impact thus far, recording zero sacks, but all indications are that he’ll contribute right away.

Gregory has been working out at The Star for most of the season after a stint in a rehab facility, so he should be in good shape. He’ll practice with the team this week, which should help determine his workload for Monday night against the Lions. Jones called him a natural pass rusher and plans to have the Cowboys use him accordingly.

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With David Irving’s recent emergence and Gregory likely to contribute, the Cowboys are gaining steam at just the right moment.