Just a year ago, veteran linebacker Ernie Sims was without a team.
Before he was signed off the streets to add some depth to an injury plagued defense last year, in fact, Sims was considering retirement. But now he’s making a legitimate case to open the season as the Cowboys’ starting strongside linebacker.
"He comes to work every day and he has ability,” said head coach Jason Garrett, per ESPN Dallas. “He can run. He can make plays on defense. He’s played in this scheme before and he’s very comfortable in it. So we thought he was a real contributor to our football team last year when we had so many injuries to come in and play such a significant role and he just continued that in the offseason, embracing the new system, something he’s played in, and you can see that."
Sims’ efforts have hit a bump in the road in the form of a strained groin, suffered in practice Monday, but the eight-year vet isn’t ready to throw in the towel by any means.
“It’s kind of unfortunate that I tweaked my groin, but you can bet your last dollar that when I get back out here I’m going to keep fighting,” Sims said. “I can see it in my grasp. I think it’s reachable. The coaches are giving me a lot of praise. Before I tweaked my groin, they were working me into the starting position. I’m excited about that, and I’m just eager to get on the field.”
Stay on top of the latest Dallas Cowboys news with NBCDFW.com. Follow NBC DFW on Facebook or have breaking Cowboys news sent directly to your phone with Blue Star SMS alerts. Text "bluestar" to 622339 (NBCDFW) to subscribe, text HELP for more info, and text STOP to end the subscription. Message and data rates may apply.Read more about it here.
