DeMarcus Lawrence considered opting out due to COVID-19 concerns. It is not known if the Pro Bowl Cowboys defensive end has decided to play, but he will report to Cowboys camp.
The seventh-year defender will report to camp Tuesday for coronavirus testing, Jane Slater of NFL.com and Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News report (Twitter links). Lawrence still has time to determine he will not play this season, with players not required to inform teams of their opt-out plans until August 3.
Lawrence’s wife is pregnant with their second child, and the acclaimed pass rusher revealed some hesitancy regarding a return to action under the circumstances.
“Shoot, I love to ride with my brothers and play the game of football. When I have to take that away from myself, it’s hard and I don’t want to make a decision like that,” Lawrence said. “But I also have to make sure I’m taking care of my family. Family is No. 1. After the game of football is done, that’s the only thing I have to depend on, so I’ve got to take care of them.”
Although Dallas added a host of veteran pass rushers — including Aldon Smith and Gerald McCoy — this offseason, Lawrence once again resides as the Cowboys’ top pressure artist. He is signed to a long-term contract that runs through the 2023 season.
Gotta always do what is best for your family. I can respect that.