It’s not an understatement to say that the Dallas Cowboys’ defense is exceptionally better with linebacker Sean Lee than without. Last season, the Cowboys were just 1-5 when Lee was out with an injury — and nearly 11 points worse per game, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
But the debate surrounding Lee has always been if he can stay healthy, and so far this season, the answer is, again, no.
The Cowboys linebacker is expected to miss his second straight game with a hamstring injury Sunday when Dallas meets the Houston Texans in prime time, owner Jerry Jones told 103.5 The Fan on Tuesday.
Jerry Jones, “It would surprise me to see Sean (Lee) back this week” (@1053TheFan) #DallasCowboys
— 🆃🆁🅾🆈 🅷🆄🅶🅷🅴🆂 ™️ (@TommySledge) October 2, 2018
In nine seasons, Lee has never played a full 16-game slate. He’s come close — appearing in 15 games twice.
The Cowboys, however, tried to be better prepared for the possibility of Lee missing games in the offseason, drafting linebacker Leighton Vander Esch in the first round.
Vander Esch played well in last week’s game against the Detriot Lions, recording six tackles in his first start.
Dallas is 2-7 all-time in games without Lee during the linebacker’s career. So far this year, they are 1-0, coming off a 26-24 win over the Lions.
Lee suffered his current hamstring injury in Week 3 against the Seattle Seahawks.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.