Cowboys O-Line ‘Secret Weapon’: Matt Waletko ‘Flexing’ Muscle

Dallas Cowboys second-year offensive lineman Matt Waletzko is impressing head coach Mike McCarthy with his ability to play both tackle and guard

Entering Year 2, Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman Matt Waletzko is making some big changes as he seeks more playing time.

The 2022 fifth-round pick out of North Dakota isn't just rocking a new number, switching from No. 71 to No. 79, but could line up at a new position as well. Waletzko is taking reps this offseason at his usual tackle position, but is also getting a share of snaps along the interior is well. 

Being able to play in a variety of situations is a good way for an under-publicized guy to stand out, and Waletzko's versatility has already caught the attention of head coach Mike McCarthy.

"You watch him come out of college," McCarthy said. You see this guy has a little better feet than we probably realized. Then obviously playing tackle with his length, when he walks in the door it's easy to think this guy is going to be a left or right tackle the rest of his career. (But) really shown the ability to (also play) inside."

To say Waletzko's rookie season didn't go according to plan would be putting it lightly. He only played in three games and took just 12 total snaps, with all but one of them being on special teams, and suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in October. It took until May for Waletzko to return to action, but he put everything he had into his recovery. 

"You really don't know until you get in there and see what their capabilities are," McCarthy said. "He didn't miss a workout session with the rehab, he put in a tremendous amount of extra time and energy into the shoulder recovery."

The Cowboys have plenty of talent at tackle with Tyron Smith, Tyler Smith, Terence Steele and more. … with Tyler and Terence also in play at guard. Perhaps moving inside is the way to go as Waletzko looks to make a name for himself in Dallas, but being able to play both positions is even better.

"Position flex is important, it's a part of the design of the 53-man roster and even more so the 48-man when we get to the games," McCarthy said. "Everybody has been very very impressed with Matt. He's having a heck of an offseason."

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You can find Jonathan Alfano on Twitter @JonAlfano_News

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