Cowboys defensive lineman Tyrone Crawford was carted off the field during today’s game against the Buccaneers (via ESPN’s Todd Archer). The veteran suffered an apparent neck injury during the second play of the game, and he was subsequently transported to the hospital.
Replays showed Crawford’s head and neck collide into the shoulder of Buccaneers offensive lineman Ryan Jensen. The 29-year-old was moving his arms and legs following the injury, and he lifted both arms as he was carted off. The Cowboys’ defensive captain also had his head stabilized to a board before exiting the field.
With the Cowboys pushing for a playoff spot, the team will now be struggling to replace one of their defensive leaders. The 2012 third-rounder was having another productive season in 2018, compiling 34 tackles and a career-high 5.5 sacks. Pro Football Focus ranked Crawford 36th among 116 eligible interior defenders, the second-straight season where he’s rated as above-average.
While it will be tough for the Cowboys to replace Crawford’s leadership and production, the team does have some depth at defensive tackle. Randy Gregory replaced Crawford following the injury, and the team could also turn to 2017 first-rounder Taco Charlton. The sophomore was active today after having been a healthy scratch for the Cowboys’ previous three games.
David Irving!!!