Defensive end Randy Gregory will make his 2016 debut tonight against the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football.
Having served his 14-game ban for drug violations (stacked from one 4-game and one 10-game punishment), Gregory is now eligible to play. He is facing another potential year-long ban for subsequent offense but that is currently under appeal. Gregory is able to keep playing until the appeal moves further, which may not occur until the offseason.
Defensive lineman Zach Moore, who was called up from the practice squad a little over a week ago, was released to make room for Gregory. He was active last week against Tampa Bay but was not noticeable in the game.
While it didn’t confirm anything, Moore did post a tweet within the last few hours that suggested he may have been given some bad news:
https://twitter.com/zachmoore_90/status/813444921411702788
Randy Gregory hasn’t played since Week 17 of 2015. He did not participate in Dallas’ training camp or preseason while he was undergoing drug rehabilitation. He has not been able to practice with the team while under suspension but has been diligently working out with training staff. Gregory has reportedly found a regular workout partner in rookie linebacker Jaylon Smith.
Ask any Cowboys coach and they’ll tell you that Gregory is the most talented pass rusher on the team. He will get two weeks to knock off the rust and potentially contribute to Dallas’ quest for a championship.
Though tonight’s game is “meaningless” in many ways for Dallas, it will hopefully be a special night for this young man. Gregory’s return immediately vaults near the top of things to watch for tonight if you’re a Cowboys fan
