The Dallas Cowboys began their training camp in Oxnard with one of the most pristine injury records in the NFL, but that changed quickly when new safety PJ Locke exited the field in the waning minutes of the session. Locke, who signed with the Cowboys in the offseason after spending six years with the Broncos, is among the candidates vying for a starting safety spot in Dallas's competitive secondary. His departure, however, introduced the first injury scare of the camp.
Locke's injury happened during a routine backpedal drill, a common scenario in training. He planted his left foot and immediately hobbled off the field, signaling a likely hyperextended knee. As the defensive back did not return to the field, he was taken to the medical area by team trainer Jim Maurer. The injury, while non-contact, often raises red flags in football circles due to the risk of ligament damage, especially to the ACL.
However, concerns about the injury were quickly tempered by encouraging reports from the Dallas Morning News and local radio. According to Calvin Watkins, the incident didn’t suggest anything as severe as an ACL tear. Brian Broaddus, a former team scout turned media analyst, offered further clarity on 105.3 The Fan in Dallas, noting that while the situation was concerning, it should not lead to long-term complications. “It's a knee injury with our guy Locke,” Broaddus said. “But I was tagged, it should be OK.”
A Dynamic Safety Position Battle
Locke's injury comes at a pivotal time for the Cowboys as they begin to evaluate their safety group. The team is building around a versatile and dynamic secondary that will feature newcomers like first-round pick Caleb Downs and free-agent acquisition Jalen Thompson. Among the group, Locke offers a distinct advantage: a pre-existing relationship with new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who previously mentored him in Denver. That experience could help Locke adapt quickly to new defensive concepts.
Parker’s system emphasizes adaptability, and safeties are expected to shift roles depending on the situation. Locke may find himself in coverage duties, in the box acting as an extra linebacker, or even working outside in certain formations. This kind of positional flexibility could be just what he needs to gain an edge in the competition for a starting role, despite his early setback.
Schottenheimer has already made it clear that the team plans to push the pace in camp, with more physical contact and full-pad drills than the previous season. That aggressive approach aligns with the expectations set during his press conference at the start of camp, where he highlighted the team’s strong physical condition as a major asset. The only players being closely monitored are defensive lineman Donovan Ezeiruaku and defensive back DaRon Bland, both of whom missed significant portions of the off-season work. Schottenheimer assured fans that while these two will be carefully managed, there are no immediate restrictions. “We’re very, very healthy going into camp and hopefully it stays that way,” the coach said.