Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
2012 was a disappointing season for the Dallas Cowboys.
It was an injury-plagued season that didn’t discriminate. It affected stars, as in DeMarcus Ware, all the way down to back-up players, as in Caleb McSurdy.
Late in the season it was obvious that Ware was battling injuries and that he wasn’t 100 percent, registering just 1.5 sacks in the final six games of the season. During the off-season, Ware opted to have his right shoulder surgically repaired and says he’ll be 100 percent ready when training camp rolls around in July.
“It feels really good right now, but I hadn’t had any impact yet,” Ware said. “That’s the whole deal of how much impact can you take? You don’t want to take too early and have a setback.”
Ware also battled through a hyperextended right elbow and had to wear a protective brace to keep from damaging the arm any further. However, he did not require surgery on the elbow.
“It’s doing really good.” Ware said. I’m so happy I didn’t have to have a second surgery.”
The 31-year-old is in the midst of changing positions from 3-4 outside linebacker to defensive end in Monte Kiffin’s Tampa Cover 2 defense and will need to stay healthy for the Cowboys to have any shot at improving on their second consecutive 8-8 season.
The Cowboys will need everyone on the defense including Ware to stay healthy throughout the season, but that is definitely easier said than done. It’s no surprise to anyone; defense wins championships.
The Cowboys haven’t had one of those in a long time.
Jesus Flores is a Dallas Cowboys writer for www.RantSports.com Follow him on Twitter @SSgtFlo1
