IRVING, Texas – The revolving door continues for the Cowboys' defensive line.
On Wednesday, the team signed former Vikings defensive tackle Everett Dawkins to the active roster.
Since the start of September, the Cowboys have signed nine defensive linemen to the active roster. Dawkins was brought in to replace Marvin Austin, who was signed Oct. 21.
The Cowboys also signed defensive end Hall Davis to the practice squad, along with guard PhillipKeith Manley.
"I don't know if there's been a week when we haven't had a new D-lineman coming in," defensive tackle Nick Hayden said. "The guys that have been coming have just got to make the most of the opportunity to stick on the team."
With a number of injuries on the defensive line, the new players aren't just brought in to be practice bodies.
"As soon as they get here they have to learn the scheme," defensive tackle Jason Hatcher said. "Everette Brown got here a couple of days ago (last Tuesday) and he played Sunday. It shows you how fast these guys have got to get ready to play."
The veteran Hatcher takes it upon himself to acclimate the new players.
"It's been a fun process getting to know each and every one of these guys' personalities on and off the field," Hatcher said. "It's been fun just going out there and setting the tone, letting them know how to play the game. They've been coming in and responding right away."
And if they don't respond right away? The revolving door gets activated again.
"[Line coach] Rod Marinelli demands a lot out of us," Hayden said. "The news guys coming in, if they can't cut it obviously they're out. But hopefully these guys they brought in can help us out and play winning football."
Follow Keith Whitmire on Twitter: @Keith_Whitmire
