DALLAS, TX — In what league insiders are calling a bold and potentially franchise-altering decision, the Dallas Cowboys confirmed Tuesday that the organization has begun preliminary discussions about the possibility of practicing.
“We’re exploring all options,” said a team spokesperson who asked not to be identified, citing the sensitivity of the situation. “Practice is something we take very seriously as a concept.”
The move, which would make the Cowboys one of only 32 NFL teams to practice regularly, comes after a season in which the team finished with a record that sources described as “a lot of losses” and analysts characterized as “somehow still surprising.”
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer declined to confirm whether practice sessions would be mandatory, optional, or “more of a vibe,” but assured reporters that the Cowboys organization remains committed to “the pursuit of excellence, or something in that neighborhood.”
Quarterback Dak Prescott, reached for comment outside a Dallas-area Raising Cane’s, said he was “open to the idea” and had “heard good things about practice” from several teammates.
Veteran receiver CeeDee Lamb expressed cautious optimism. “I’ve practiced before,” said Lamb, 25. “It was fine.”
Not everyone in the organization shares the enthusiasm. One anonymous offensive lineman, speaking on condition of anonymity, pushed back on what he called a “rushed decision.” “We don’t even know what days,” he said. “Are we talking mornings? Because mornings are tough.” Another was quoted as saying “We talkin about practice, practice. Not a game. Practice.”
The Cowboys have scheduled a follow-up meeting to discuss the practice discussion, which is expected to be followed by a press conference announcing the scheduling of an additional meeting.
At press time, the team had not yet practiced.
— Ray “The Gut” Gunderson, Fantasy Football Analyst & Waiver Wire Specialist
“2011 Fantasy Champion. Never Forgotten. Never Letting You Forget.”
