As the Dallas Cowboys near the end of their training camp in Oxnard, the focus has shifted to evaluating the backup center position following a significant injury. Veteran Matt Hennessy was expected to step in if starter Cooper Beebe faced issues, but he has been placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury, creating a gap in the offensive line's depth.
T.J. Bass has emerged as the primary candidate for the backup center role, despite his limited experience at that position. Bass, who has primarily played guard and started in 10 games over the past three seasons, received a second-round tender in the offseason, ensuring a salary of $5.76 million.
In the first preseason game, he started at center for two series before being replaced by Nick Leverett, a player signed to the practice squad last November.
Leverett, who has experience at guard and one career start at center, has been working extensively in practice as the backup center. The Cowboys are considering both Bass and Leverett for the role, as the need for a reliable backup center is critical, especially with Beebe's injury history.
The next few weeks will be vital for both players as the team aims to finalize their backup center plans, allowing Bass to potentially return to his preferred guard position.
