Cowboys Injury Update: Sam Williams & Dorance Armstrong OUT in Oxnard

Dallas Cowboys second-year defensive end Sam Williams is hoping for more snaps this season, and if he gets them, opposing offensive linemen might be in for a tough time. But first? He and Dorance Armstrong need to get healthy.

When considering the Dallas Cowboys pass-rush, thoughts naturally gravitate toward Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence. But Dorance Armstrong and Sam Williams have also made some big splashes and joined that big-name party.​ ... Just not right now, as both defensive ends dealt with injuries as the Cowboys practiced in pads on Monday in Oxnard.

Williams left practice early with a shoulder issue, which is being labeled a "strain.'' Armstrong did not practice due to tightness in his hamstring.

Coach Mike McCarthy has already stated that Williams could take the "second-year leap," with Williams himself setting a sack goal of 10 for this season. Hopefully, the shoulder does not get in the way of his goal. And Armstrong? He may have recorded the "quietest'' 8.5-sacks season ever, offering a big impact while in the shadows of bigger-name teammates.

With Dallas deep at defensive end as Parsons, Lawrence and Dante Fowler all rotate along the defensive line, Armstrong and Williams might have to settle into rotational roles. But Williams had four sacks in his rookie campaign. Rookie Junior Fehoko will now get more snaps with the two ends out. And with the way coordinator Dan Quinn moves his chess pieces?

Well, safety Donovan Wilson (presently nursing an injury) had five sacks last year. Safety Jayron Kearse can rush the passer. "Run-stopping'' rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith can get upfield.

Given the embarrassment of riches at Quinn's disposal, Armstrong and Williams don't have to be hurried back. But they will want to, lest they be usurped by teammates who also want a piece of the opposing QBs.

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