As the Dallas Cowboys near the conclusion of their training camp in Oxnard, the evaluation of the team's strengths and weaknesses is intensifying. The offense, led by quarterback Dak Prescott and featuring standout wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, is shaping up to be a significant strength 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 optimize the lineup.
A critical area of focus is the backup center position. Initially, veteran Matt Hennessy was expected to step in if starter Cooper Beebe were to be sidelined. Unfortunately, Hennessy was placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury prior to the start of training camp, creating a notable gap in the offensive line depth.
In response, the Cowboys have turned to T.J. Bass as the primary backup center, despite his lack of experience in that role. Bass, a fourth-year undrafted free agent, has demonstrated his value as a guard and has been recognized for his contributions, receiving a second-round tender worth $5.76 million in the offseason.
He has started in ten games at guard over the past three seasons, which has led the Cowboys to believe he can also handle center duties.
During the first exhibition 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 secured a futures contract in January, has more experience at guard but has one career start at center from 2024.
Following the preseason game, Leverett was observed taking extensive snaps as the backup center in practice, while Bass returned to playing guard.
