As the Dallas Cowboys near the end of their training camp in Oxnard, the team is assessing its strengths and weaknesses. The offense, spearheaded by quarterback Dak Prescott, is bolstered by standout wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, which is anticipated to be a key asset for the squad.
Concerns have arisen regarding the depth of the offensive line, particularly at the backup center position. Veteran Matt Hennessy was initially expected to fill in for starter Cooper Beebe if needed, but he has now been placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury, leaving a significant gap in depth.
In light of this, T.J. Bass has been named the primary backup center, despite having limited experience in that role. Bass, viewed as the top backup offensive lineman, has played guard and started in 10 games over the last three seasons. The Cowboys acknowledged his potential by offering him a second-round tender, ensuring a salary of $5.76 million.
In the first preseason game, Bass took the field at center for two series before being substituted by Nick Leverett. Leverett, who joined the practice squad last November and later secured a futures contract, has more experience at guard but has one career start at center from 2024.
Following the preseason victory, Leverett was seen working diligently as the backup center while Bass returned to his guard position during practice. The Cowboys are currently weighing their options as they finalize their backup center plans, which is crucial given Beebe's injury history from last season.