Cowboys face offensive line dilemma as starting center Cooper Beebe sidelined for up to eight weeks with ankle injury

Cowboys face offensive line dilemma as Cooper Beebe sidelined with ankle injury

The Dallas Cowboys are bracing for a significant setback as starting center Cooper Beebe is set to be sidelined for a stretch of six to eight weeks due to a high ankle sprain.

Injury Details

Beebe’s injury occurred during the Cowboys’ Week 2 victory over the New York Giants, raising immediate concerns for a team that relies heavily on its offensive line. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported the grim prognosis on Monday, confirming that Beebe’s condition will likely lead to a stint on injured reserve.

Drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Kansas State, Beebe quickly established himself as a key player on the Cowboys’ offensive line. In his rookie season, he started all 16 games and posted a Pro Football Focus grade of 65.4, placing him 20th among 64 qualifying centers. This season, Beebe began strongly, with a grade of 70.4 that ranks him 10th among 39 centers, and his run-blocking prowess, reflected in a grade of 71.7, positioned him seventh in the league.

Impact on the Offensive Line

With Beebe out, the Cowboys will likely turn to backup center Brock Hoffman to fill the void. Hoffman stepped in when Beebe exited the game and has accumulated valuable experience over his four-year career, including nine starts and 39 appearances.

The offensive line’s stability will now hinge on Hoffman’s ability to adapt quickly to the starting role. Recent investments in the line, such as the contract extension for left guard Tyler Smith, underscore the Cowboys’ commitment to strengthening their front. However, with rookie right guard Tyler Booker still finding his footing, the interior of the offensive line now appears vulnerable.

As Dallas prepares for the coming weeks without Beebe, the pressure will be on Hoffman and the surrounding linemen to maintain the rhythm and effectiveness that the Cowboys’ offense relies upon. The team’s ability to navigate this injury will be critical as they aim to sustain their momentum in the competitive landscape of the NFL.