Dallas Cowboys Rolando McClain not expected to play

Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker Rolando McClain is becoming a star at the heart of the team’s weak defense, as he’s been a huge bright spot- and an unexpected one, at that- through the first three weeks of the regular season. McClain’s absence on Sunday helped the St. Louis Rams put up 31 points in a game that was much closer than the Cowboys would have liked, so getting their newfound playmaker back will be key.

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However, Brandon George of the Dallas Morning News reports that McClain was not at practice for a second straight day this week, and the Cowboy do not expect him to suit up against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. It would be a huge blow against an offense that features Jimmy Graham, Pierre Thomas, and another talented pass-catching RB in Khiry Robinson. McClain’s unique athletic traits allow him to excel in coverage, and he has an interception through two games to prove it.

McClain was a game-time decision last week against the Rams, but he was obviously always going to be ruled out, as the Cowboys listed him doubtful on Friday’s injury report. He’ll probably earn a questionable or doubtful designation this week, and he doesn’t have a shot at playing if he misses practice tomorrow. Without McClain, someone else will have to step up against the Saints offense, which should explode again this week.

Defensive tackles Henry Melton and Terrell McClain, per George, also missed practice today.