Monday, July 20, 1998

Two Cowboys defenders suffer knee injuries, could be lost for season

WICHITA FALLS (AP) - The Dallas Cowboys have lost two defensive players to knee injuries.

Linebacker Broderick Thomas was hurt in Sunday's late practice, a day after cornerback Wendell Davis went down during a passing drill.

Owner Jerry Jones said Thomas could miss the entire season, but trainer Jim Maurer said it was too early to tell.

"We'll have to see after an MRI," Maurer said.

Thomas had been moved from defensive end to linebacker and was being counted upon to be one of the Cowboys primary rushers on obvious passing downs.

Coach Chan Gailey said Davis "is definitely out for the season. It's a tough injury because he got hurt last year."

Davis underwent arthroscopic surgery in January for a tear suffered in a Dec. 22 game against Washington.

"It seems like everything has been going against me but I'm determined to come back again," said the former Oklahoma Sooner.

Rising star

Mark down No. 15 on your training camp roster as one of the most impressive wide receivers.

He's Anthony Eubanks, a free agent from Arkansas.

Eubanks has made catch after catch in drills, including several spectacular grabs in Sunday's 105-degree heat.

"This kid has been making catches since he showed up in our mini-camps (Valley Ranch)," said coach Chan Gailey. "He's been doing it every day down here, too."

Cowboys get golf break

The Dallas Cowboys will take up golf today during a break from the training-camp grind. Wichita Falls Country Club will be the site of the annual team golf outing.

Coach Chan Gailey said he would just as soon be working but said the team probably could stand a little rest.

"Not many coaches want players playing in golf tournaments in the middle of training camp," said Gailey, who is about a 2-handicapper himself.

Where's the Shotgun?

Yet another practice went by without the Cowboys unveiling the shotgun offense that coach Gailey has promised to use.

Quarterback Troy Aikman said it is coming soon.

"We'll be working it into the offense late next week," said Aikman who has decided to give it a try.

"I'm fine with the Shotgun, no problem," said Aikman, who could gain a valuable second or two from the defensive pass rush in the formation where he takes a direct snap from center.

Cowboys a hot draw

Despite a blowtorch-hot sun, the Cowboys are packing them in at Midwestern State University.

Over 3,000 fans braved the 100-degree plus weather on Sunday to attend the late practice.

"I hear the cheers," said coach Gailey. "We appreciate them. I think it gives our players added incentive. This is an excellent training facility."