Criticized Cowboys signing looks so much worse after injury in preseason

The Dallas Cowboys lost their first preseason game in bizarre fashion as the Los Angeles Rams scored the game-winning touchdown with seconds left in regulation. While Trey Lance looked as raw as he did as a rookie three years ago, there were a lot of positive takeaways.

Mike Zimmer's defense came away with three interceptions and Mazi Smith showed more instincts and conviction relative to his rookie year. Brandon Aubrey made four of five field goals with his only miss coming from 65 yards. On offense, receiver Jalen Cropper bolstered his case for a roster spot.

Not everything was sunshine and rainbows, however. Lance's performance will make the most headlines, but the Cowboys suffered a potentially serious injury to their offensive line. Chuma Edoga, who started at left tackle on Sunday, was spotted after the game in a walking boot.

Edoga left the game early with a toe injury and did not return. The extent of Edoga's injury is not yet known (he'll get an MRI), but it could cast a darker light on Dallas' lackluster free agency if it ends up being serious.

Cowboys OT Chuma Edgoa suffered foot injury in preseason loss vs. Rams

Luckily for the Cowboys, first-round pick Tyler Guyton looked like a world-beater in limited action against the Rams. On a pitch count after missing a handful of practices with an illness, Guyton delivered three highlight-reel blocks.

The plan all along is for Guyton to start Week 1 at left tackle, but Edoga's injury opens up concerns about the team's offensive line depth.

Second-year pro Asim Richards is having a strong camp and performed well on Sunday, but he's looked noticeably more comfortable at guard than tackle. A fifth-round pick last year, Richards started the game at left guard. That says a lot about how the Cowboys plan to use him this season.

The other backup tackles on the roster are Matt Waletzko, who's played seven snaps (all at right tackle) in two seasons, and former undrafted free agent Earl Bostick Jr., who spent all of last season on the practice squad.

Edoga has been prone to injury throughout his career. He got dinged up with the Cowboys last summer during training camp and he looks set for another spell on the sidelines. Maybe the foot injury ends up being minor, but this justifies fans' cries for the team to sign a more established tackle in free agency after Tyron Smith was allowed to leave.

The tackle market wasn't robust this year by any stretch, but between Cornelius Lucas, Josh Jones and Andrus Peat there were plenty of viable alternatives. Depending on the severity of Edoga's injury, the Cowboys might be forced to scowl the cut market for insurance behind Guyton.

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