Dallas Cowboys Defensive End Recovering From Surgery

A key member of the Dallas Cowboys defensive line and current free agent is doing well following elbow surgery.

Last year was not the season that Dallas Cowboys fans, coaches and players alike envisaged. Least of all defensive lineman Jeremy Mincey. After a surprisingly successful 2014, much was expected. But a 4-12 record fell desperately short of what anyone wanted.

Signing with the Cowboys in 2014, Mincey had a bigger impact than expected. He helped the defense compete. Starting every game, he led the team in sacks (6), made 26 tackles, forced 2 fumbles and recovered 2 fumbles. Those figures are comparable to Greg Hardy‘s production this season.

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The addition of Hardy as well as new draftee Randy Gregory meant dependency on Mincey was less. He started just six games, made 11 tackles and failed to notch a single sack. While some look at this with disappointment it’s worth considering that Mincey was only ever brought into the side to bridge the gap. He wasn’t the big splash free agent signing that Greg Hardy was.

It wasn’t that Hardy and Gregory were so dominant that Mincey started fewer games. He’d had surgery in the offseason on his right elbow, but he was still limited through the year struggling at times to even straighten his arm with bone spurs restricting movement.

"“I plan on getting my elbow scoped where I can use and get is straightened out where I can function.” Jeremy Mincey, December 2015"

The injury was nagging enough that he’s had to undergo surgery again this week in a bid to extend his playing career.

Glory to God My Surgery went Well. I pray He heals me Fully so I can do some real damage this… https://t.co/D5rO1o0ha0
— Jeremy Mincey (@MrMince94) February 17, 2016

There’s no guarantee that Mincey will return to Dallas. He’s a free agent and wasn’t particularly positive on the prospect of coming back at the end of the season.

"“Who knows what the future brings. I’m just optimistic about the future. I plan on going on a real thorough training this offseason, getting my elbow fixed and take my game to heights I know it can go.”"

In just two years in Dallas, Mincey has become a leader of the team. A captain who doesn’t shy away from criticism and is on hand for an inspiring speech when required.

"“I’m a leader. This is who I am… You’ve got to have players that are willing to die for the cause, and I want to win. I play to win, and that’s my mentality.”"

Mincey was brought in to replace the outgoing DeMarcus Ware. He may not have replaced his production, but the heart both men display on and off the field is honorable. He maybe 32 with a sore elbow, but he could still play a part in the upcoming year or two for the Cowboys. Experienced playing on the edge or from inside, he’s that invaluable versatile piece that can contribute as a starter or backup.

While it’s Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware and Aqib Talib that will go down as the heroes of Super Bowl 50 there’s the more forgettable players like Derek Wolfe and Malik Jackson that were pivotal for the Denver defense.

Mincey may not be that double digit sack machine but he’s a bridge to the Cowboys progressing. If there’s a choice between Mincey and Hardy, I’d pay Mr Mince.

Next: Cowboys Free Agency: 15 Bargain Basement Players

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