As the Dallas Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard comes to a close, the team is focusing on its offensive line depth. Quarterback Dak Prescott leads an offense expected to perform well, but the backup center position remains uncertain following injuries.
Veteran Matt Hennessy, initially expected to step in for starter Cooper Beebe, has been placed on season-ending injured reserve due to a neck injury. This situation has prompted the Cowboys to evaluate T.J. Bass as the main candidate for the backup center role.
Although Bass is primarily a guard and has started in 10 games over the last three seasons, he was recognized for his potential with a second-round tender worth $5.76 million this offseason.
In the first preseason game, Bass took the field at center for two series before being substituted for Nick Leverett. Leverett, who joined the practice squad last November and later signed a futures contract, has a background primarily at guard, with only one career start at center occurring in 2024.
After the game, Leverett was seen practicing extensively in the backup center role, while Bass returned to his guard position.
