The Cowboys are shuffling their defensive line in hopes of getting pass-rush and run-stop productivity against the Bears on Thursday, sources tell FOX Sports Southwest, with Josh Brent, Henry Melton and DeMarcus Lawrence the key names involved
Lawrence, the rookie pass-rush specialist, has what the Cowboys privately conceded are injuries to his chest and ribs that figure to be limiting on Thursday. That means more defensive end work from Melton, whose natural position is defensive tackle. However, Dallas defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli, we're told, is trying to chess-piece Melton into positions to succeed against the Bears offensive line.
And Brent, much ballyhooed in the last two weeks by the national media despite the fact that he's been nothing but a scout-teamer during that period, is finally elevating himself toward game-day activation. Brent is working as the No. 2 man at the 1-technique, with Terrell McClain making room for him by shifting over to the backup 3-technique defensive tackle.
Nick Hayden (1-tech) and Tyrone Crawford (very disruptive at 3-tech) figure to start. But Brent should be part of the "second wave." Melton, the former Bear, needs to be a major factor. And the rookie Lawrence may not be a factor at all.
