The Dallas Cowboys are getting healthier in the defensive front seven after the team activated defensive end Benson Mayowa, linebacker Damien Wilson and defensive tackle Maliek Collins. All three passed players passed physicals and will participate in Monday's practice in some capacity for the first time.
Prior to camp, Wilson was struck in the eye with a paintball. The second-year linebacker has worn sunglasses each day he's watched the team workout.
Collins, a third-round rookie draft pick, broke his foot during organized team activities during the early parts of summer. His rehab is complete and he'll participate in his very first professional training camp.
The Cowboys signed Mayowa as a free agent from Oakland, but the defensive end hurt his knee over the summer. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery and is working his way back into playing form now that he can practice.
Mayowa is a guy the Cowboys like, even though he hasn't produced much on the field. In 28 career games with the Raiders, he tallied just two sacks. During that time, he didn't play a ton of snaps and the Cowboys believe he has a lot of upside.
"I've been behind great players. Right now, I live off opportunity. So, this is a great opportunity here. You know, I just got to keep working hard, get back on the field like I've been doing and take my opportunity. It starts today for me," said Mayowa.
