As the Dallas Cowboys near the conclusion of training camp in Oxnard, the team's strengths and weaknesses are becoming clearer. The offense, led by quarterback Dak Prescott and featuring top wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, is expected to be a significant asset. However, concerns remain regarding the depth of the offensive line.
While the starting offensive line is set, the Cowboys are still determining the best configuration for their backups. A key area of focus is the backup center position, which became a concern after veteran Matt Hennessy was placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury before training camp began. This left the team searching for a suitable replacement behind starter Cooper Beebe.
Veteran T.J. Bass has emerged as the primary option for the backup center role, despite lacking previous experience at that position. Bass, who is considered the best backup offensive lineman on the roster, has shown his versatility by excelling at guard.
The Cowboys recognized his value by offering him a second-round tender in the offseason, guaranteeing him a salary of $5.76 million. Over the past three seasons, he has started 10 games at guard, leading the team to believe he can also perform well at center.
In the first preseason game, Bass started at center for two series before being replaced by Nick Leverett, another option for the position. Leverett, who was signed to the practice squad in November and received a futures contract in January, has primarily played guard but has one career start at center from 2024.
Following the preseason win, Leverett was seen taking backup center snaps in practice, indicating the team's interest in his capabilities.
