According to NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo; the Dallas Cowboys are in talks with former linebacker, Justin Durant, about a possible return to the team.
Durant, 31, spent the 2013 and 2014 seasons with the Cowboys, starting 16 games, including at middle linebacker, while recording 73 tackles in two seasons. He spent the 2015 season with the Atlanta Falcons, but was released this past February after spending only one season in Atlanta.
Dallas Cowboys In Talks With Linebacker Justin Durant
Durant was the Falcons second-leading tackler last season with 82 in only 13 games. Despite being effective last season, Durant was plagued with constant injuries as he was in his two seasons with the Cowboys. Given his age, health concerns could be a factor.
During his 2013 season with the Cowboys, he missed six games with a hamstring injury, as well as a groin injury. He also dealt with calf and elbow injuries in 2014 before a torn bicep finally landed him on injured reserve.
Durant was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He spent his first four seasons with the Jaguars before signing a two-year deal with the Detroit Lions in 2011. Following his stint with the Lions, Durant signed a two-year, $1.96 million deal with the Cowboys.
Current Cowboys middle linebacker, Rolando McClain, is due to serve a ten game suspension to start the season. McClain failed a second drug test in as many years. The first one earned him a four game suspension last season. McClain has been suspended fourteen games as a result of violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
If the Cowboys do sign Durant, not only do they add some much needed veteran depth, but he’s also very familiar with the Cowboys defensive schemes. Dallas also has Anthony Hitchens and Andrew Gachkar that can play middle linebacker. However, it would be a wise move for the Cowboys to keep their options open.
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